Chorus:
“Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.”
Now, just what does “Gloria in Excelsis Deo” mean? We
sing it loudly and joyfully every Christmas, but do we know what we are
singing? You’ve heard the words many times before.
“Glory to God in
the Highest”
“In essence, the "Gloria in Excelsis Deo" is a
remarkably concise yet powerful summary of core Christian beliefs. It
encapsulates praise, adoration, and supplication directed towards the Holy
Trinity . . . The hymn's enduring power lies in its ability to connect the
worshipper to the divine, fostering a sense of awe, gratitude, and profound
connection with the source of all being. It's a timeless invitation to join in
the celestial chorus, singing Words to Glory to God in the highest.” Linguisimo.com
This is a hymn of praise and adoration, expressing profound
reverence and gratitude to the Holy Trinity: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus
Christ), and God the Holy Spirit.
“French legend indicates that in medieval times on
Christmas Eve, the shepherds would sing and call to one another from one
hillside to another. ‘They would call “’Gloria in excelsis Deo’ which
means ‘glory to God in the highest’ in Latin. It was how they would spread
their holiday message and cheer from points far away to one another. From
hillside to valley, the shepherd’s song must have truly sounded like angels
calling to one another in celebration of the birth of Christ for the Christians
living in nearby regions. Also, the song reflects the shepherd’s joy that the
time of the holiday season has arrived yet again.” Dianaleaghmatthews.com
The next time you sing this popular Christmas hymn, remember
you’re actually singing: “Glory to God in the Highest.” Here are the
great verses!
“Angels we have
heard on high, Sweetly singing o'er the plains,
And the mountains in reply Echoing their joyous strains.
“Shepherds, why
this jubilee? Why your joyous strains prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be Which inspire your heavn'ly song?
“Come to Bethlehem
and see Him whose birth the angels sing.
Come, adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King.
“See Him in a
manger laid, Whom the choirs of angels praise.
Mary, Joseph, lend your aid While our hearts in love we raise.”
"Glory to God in the Highest!"
By His Grace . . .
