Classic Poem

C HRIST is born of Blessed Mary!
Sing the wondrous Life begun!
Man Divine and God Incarnate!
Israel, lo! thy Holy One!
Now fulfilled the Prophet's vision!
See the Child, the Lord of all,
Stript, indeed, of Heavenly splendor,
Choosing for His couch a stall.
Hail, Messiah, Hail!
All Hail!

Thou, O Israel's God and Saviour,
Verily Thyself dost hide;
Clad in flesh, disguised in weakness,
All Thou hast by earth supplied.
Very God from everlasting
As a helpless Babe revealed,
Mary's breast Thy transient pillow,
Mary's arms Thy only shield!
Hail, Emmanuel, Hail!
All Hail!

Wonderful the Seer proclaimed Thee,
Mighty God, and Prince of Peace,
King whose everlasting Kingdom
Shall forevermore increase!
Yet no royal sign or title
Could Thy boundless grace declare
Like that Name of endless sweetness
Thou for us alone dost bear.
Jesus, Jesus, Hail!
All Hail!

Jesus! — Saviour of His People!
Jesus! — Shepherd of His Flock!
Well of Life, and Hidden Manna;
Wayside Strength, and Tower of Rock,
Jesus, see Thy Church adoring
Prostrate at Thine infant feet,
Her Redeemer's praise outpouring
In that Name of Names most sweet!
Jesus, Jesus, Hail!