This hymn’s history is the source of some disagreement. The traditional story is that Mohr and Gruber wrote it in Oberndorf, Austria, on Christmas Eve when they iscovered the church organ was broken (different versions say it rusted out, or mice chewed through vital parts). However, recent evidence indicates this may be only folklore. An old manuscript has reportedly been discovered that shows Franz Gruber wrote the score 2-4 years after Mohr wrote the lyrics. Whatever the truth, this carol has been a Christmas favorite for almost 200 years.

Silent night Holy night  All is calm all is bright

Round you virgin Mother and Child

Holy infant so tender and mild

Sleep in heavenly peace  Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, holy night Shepherds quake at the sight

Glories stream from heaven afar

Heav'nly hosts sing Alleluia

Christ the Savior is born  Christ the Savior is born

Silent night, holy night

Son of God, love's pure light

Radiant beams from Thy holy face

With the dawn of redeeming grace

Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth  Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth

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