Verse 1

O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie; Above thy deep and dreamless sleep, The silent stars go by. Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting Light; The hopes and fears of all the years, Are met in thee tonight.

Verse 2

For Christ is born of Mary And gathered all above; While mortals sleep the angels keep Their watch of wondering love. O, morning stars together Proclaim the holy birth; And praises sing to God the King And peace to men on earth.

Verse 3

How silently, how silently, The wondrous gift is giv'n; So God imparts to human hearts, The blessings of His heaven. No ear may hear His coming, But in this world of sin; Where meek souls will Receive Him still, The dear Christ enters in.

Verse 4

O, holy child of Bethlehem, Descend to us we pray; Cast out our sin and enter in, Be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels, The great glad tidings tell; O, come to us abide with us, Our Lord, Emmanuel.