When Christ was Born of Mary Free

Melody -

Traditional, 15th century

When Christ was born of Mary free,
In Bethlehem, that fair citie,
Angels sang there with mirth and glee,
In excelsis gloria.

2. Herdsmen beheld these angels bright,
To them appearing with great light,
Who said, God's Son is born this night,
In excelsis gloria.

3. This King is come to save mankind,
In Scripture promised as we find,
Therefore this song have we in mind,
In excelsis gloria.

4. Grant us, O Lord, for thy great grace,
In heaven in bliss to see thy face,
Where we may sing to thy solace,
In excelsis gloria.

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