English Christmas carols often are lively and sparkly, and The Snow Lay on the Ground is no exception. The pairing of “venite adoremus Dominum” with the end of the melody reminds us that worship should be both a reverent and joyous experience.
The snow lay on the ground, the stars shone bright,
When Christ our Lord was born on Christmas night.
Venite adoremus Dominum.
‘Twas Mary, daughter pure of holy Anne,
That brought into this world the God made man.
She laid him in a stall at Bethlehem;
The ass and oxen shared the roof with them.
Venite adoremus Dominum.
Saint Joseph, too, was by to tend the child;
To guard him, and protect his mother mild;
The angels hovered round, and sang this song,
Venite adoremus Dominum.
And thus that manger poor became a throne;
For he whom Mary bore was God the Son.
O come, then, let us join the heavenly host;
To praise the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
Venite adoremus Dominum.
Church Calendar: Christmas
Hymn tune: VENITE ADOREMUS
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Purchasing this 8-bell arrangement gives you permission to print and maintain up to four copies for your handbell group (plus the accompaniment score, if part of the purchase) – so you only need to pay once. Purchase also gives permission for performance, broadcasting, live-streaming and video-sharing online. See our licensing agreement for full details, and please remember to mention the title and arranger of the piece on video-sharing sites, social media and any printed materials such as concert programs.
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2 comments
Hi Carla and Larry, I hope all is well with you in these crazy times! And Larry I hope that your shoulder is healing well. Your eight bell arrangements are perfect for this time of social distancing and limited in-person contact! In September our 3-octave set of Schulmerich handbells at Crystal Springs UMC was stolen in a break-in. But with the insurance money we were actually able to purchase a nicer set and we’re looking forward to playing in groups of 3 or 4 for the holiday season!
Best regards, Pat Leake
Author
Hi Pat!
We’re so glad to hear from you!
It’s so good when insurance becomes the silver lining in an incident that could have been disastrous. It’s great that Crystal Springs has a brand new set of bells – and people to play them!
Larry’s shoulder has been cleared for full normal use, and should regain (most of) its original flexibility and strength over the coming months.
Enjoy the music and stay safe,
Larry & Carla