Angels We Have Heard on High is a traditional Christmas hymn that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
The song is known for its joyful melody and the beautiful chorus “Gloria in excelsis Deo,” which means “Glory to God in the highest” in Latin.
It tells the story of angels appearing to shepherds in the fields, sharing the good news of Christ’s birth. The hymn is often sung in churches and carol services, spreading a message of peace, joy, and heavenly praise during the Christmas season.
About the Author and Translator
James Chadwick was an English Roman Catholic bishop best known for translating the French Christmas carol “Les Anges dans nos campagnes” into English as “Angels We Have Heard on High.” He was born in 1813 in Drogheda, Ireland, and served as the Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle.
Though not a professional lyricist, his adaptation of the hymn became widely popular for its joyful tone and the memorable Latin chorus, “Gloria in excelsis Deo.” Chadwick was a respected church leader, known for his strong faith and commitment to education and community service.
His version of the carol remains a cherished part of Christmas celebrations around the world. He passed away in 1882, leaving behind a lasting spiritual and musical legacy.
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Name | James Chadwick |
Birth Year | 1813 |
Death Year | 1882 |
Representative Text
Angels we have heard on high,
Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains.
Refrain
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous strains prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be
Which inspire your heavn’ly song? [Refrain]
Come to Bethlehem and see
Him whose birth the angels sing.
Come, adore on bended knee
Christ the Lord, the newborn King. [Refrain]
See him in a manger laid,
Whom the choirs of angels praise.
Mary, Joseph, lend your aid
While our hearts in love we raise. [Refrain]
Chords of Angels We Have Heard on High