Ad-Venting

I need tidings of comfort and of joy;
Please play me “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing.”
I don’t like “Silent Night”; it’s like a dirge;
“Sleep in Heavenly Peace”? Eternal rest.
The Christmas carols that I like the best
Are those that have a child’s happy urge
To raise the voice and spirit and to bring
True merriment and celebrate the Boy,
Forever “Mighty God” and “Prince of Peace.”
It was no silent night when He was born;
The stars rang out His glory in their spheres.
The songs of angels fell on shepherd’s ears
And “Reveille” shook Gabriel’s bright horn;
Still at His infant cry, all discords cease.

—Mary-Patrice Woehling