First, with the celebration of Solemnity of the Lord’s birth just two short days away, I thought that now would be the best time to express my warmest wishes to everyone here at St. Joseph’s, that you may all enjoy a blessed Christmas and a grace-filled 2019! May God bless you with his abundant loveJ! Second, just a few days ago, I received an email from the liturgical music director of Kenrick-Glennon Seminary that contained a brief article on the 200th anniversary of the composition of the Christmas hymn, Silent Night. He called it the most accurate account of the events leading up to its debut in 1818 that he’s ever found. The following stanzas, different from what we’re used to, represent the truest translation of the hymn from the German into English. Enjoy!
Silent Night! Holy Night!
All’s asleep, one sole light,
Just the faithful and holy pair,
Lovely boy-child with curly hair,
Sleep in Heavenly peace!
Sleep in Heavenly peace!
Silent Night! Holy Night!
God’s Son laughs, O how bright.
Love from your holy lips shines clear,
As the dawn of salvation draws near,
Jesus, Lord with your birth!
Jesus, Lord with your birth!
Silent Night! Holy Night!
Brought the world peace tonight,
From the heavens’ golden height
Shows the grace of His holy might,
Jesus as man on this earth!
Jesus as man on this earth!
Silent Night! Holy Night!
Where today all the might
Of His Fatherly love us graced
And then Jesus, as brother embraced.
All the peoples on earth!
All the peoples on earth!
Silent Night! Holy Night!
Long we hoped that He might,
As our Lord, free us of wrath,
Since times of our fathers He hath,
Promised to spare all mankind!
Promised to spare all mankind!
Silent Night! Holy Night!
Shepherds first see the sight.
Told by angelic Alleluia,
Sounding everywhere, both near and far:
“Christ the Savior is here!”
“Christ the Savior is here!”
Have a blessed Christmas!
