Willow Firesong's Pagan Yule Carol Collection ~ Table of Contents ~ A Holly Jolly Yuletide All Hail Ye, Simple Pagans Angels We Have Heard Away From the Harvest Bring a Torch Carol of the Bells Chanukah/Solstice Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire Christmas Day in the Morning Christmas Time Is Pagan! Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland Day-O Deck the Halls Dona Nobis Pacem Faunus the Roman Goat Foot Frosty the Snowman Gloria Glory to the New Born King Gloucester Wassail God Rest Ye Merry, Paganfolk Gods Bless Ye Merry Paganfolk Gods Rest Ye Merry Gods Rest Ye Merry Paganfolk Good King Wenceslas I Good King Wenceslas II Good Morrow, Happy Paganfolk Good Pagan Folk, Rejoice Hark! Hark the Neo-Pagans Sing Have Yourself a Merry Little Yuletide Hear Diana Here We Come A-Wassailing Holly King In the Bleak Midwinter Jingle Bell Rock Jingle Bells Joy to the World I Joy to the World II Joy to the World III Joy to the World IV Joy to the World V Lady Moon Shine Softly Masters in This Hall May Ye Be Merry, Gentlefolk Moon of Silver I Moon of Silver II Mother Berta's Coming to Town O Come All Ye Neighbors O Holy Night I O Holy Night II O Holy Night III O Holy Night IV O Tannenbaum I O Tannenbaum II O Yuletide Tree Oh, Come All Ye Faithful One More Christmas Tree Our Lady Greensleeves I Our Lady Greensleeves II Pagans, One and All Share the Light I Share the Light II Silent Night I Silent Night II Silver and Gold Silver Bells Sleigh Ride Solstice Day in the Morning The Holly and the Ivy I The Holly and the Ivy II The Holly and the Ivy III The Holly and the Ivy IV The Holly and the Ivy V The Holly and the Ivy VI The Holly and the Ivy VII The Light Has Been Reborn The Solstice Child The Thirteen Days of Solstice The Twelve Days of Yuletide Triple Solstice Goddess Up on the Housetop Wassail Song We Three Crones We Three Kings We Wish You a Merry Solstice What Child Is This? What Night Is This? Ye Children All of Mother Earth Yule Fires ~ Songs ~ A Holly Jolly Yuletide Words and Music by Johnny Marks words adapted by Susan M. Shaw Have a holly jolly Yuletide It's the best time of the year I don't know if there'll be snow But have a cup of cheer Have a holly jolly Yuletide And when you walk down the street Say hello to friends you know And ev'ryone you meet Oh, ho, the mistletoe Hung where you can see Somebody waits for you Kiss her once for me Have a holly jolly Yuletide and in case you didn't hear Oh, by golly have a holly jolly Yuletide This year! ~ All Hail Ye, Simple Pagans Tune: Adeste Fideles (Oh Come, All Ye Faithful) Author Unknown All hail ye, simple pagans Gather round the Yule fire Oh come ye Oh come ye To call the Sun! Fires within us Call the fire above us Oh come let us adore him! Oh come let us adore him! Oh come let us adore him! Our Lord, the Sun! Yea Lord, we greet thee Born again at Yuletide! Yule fires and candle flames Are lighted for you! Come to thy children Calling for thy blessing! Oh come let us adore him! Oh come let us adore him! Oh come let us adore him! Our Lord, the Sun ~ Angels We Have Heard Tune: Angels We Have Heard On High (Gloria In Excelsis Deo) words adapted by Blake TaylorMixon Angels we have heard on high Sweetly singing o'er the plains And the mountains in reply Echoing their joyous strains. Gloria, see the sun reborn today. Angels know that winter's nigh Turning seasons of the year See the old is passing by Bring the new one in with cheer. Gloria, celebrate the new year. ~ Away From the Harvest Tune: Away in a Manger words adapted by Blake TaylorMixon Away from the harvest the seasons have turned The nights have grown colder and fires we've burned The stars in the heavens look down where we stand Neighbors and friends with candles in hand. The warmth is returning, the sun and the light Will brighten our days and shorten our nights Come gather around the Solstice is here The old one is passing, begins the new year. ~ Bring a Torch To: Bring a Torch, Jeannette Isabella Author Unknown [I'm told this doesn't scan too well] Bring a torch, O brothers and sisters Bring a torch, light Yule fires bright We gather this night to wait for the dawning come Quickly; I see the first rays of light Ah, Ah, How radiant the Mother AH, ah, How brightly shines the Sun Sing in praise of our gracious Lady sing in Praise of her glorious Son The Wheel has turned tis time for the new year Dance gaily; we shall welcome the Sun Ah, Ah, How radiant the Mother AH, ah, How brightly shines the Sun ~ Carol of the Bells Traditional Ukranian Carol words adapted by Hilda Marshall Hark! How the bells, sweet silver bells All seem to say, "Throw cares away." Yuletide is here, bringing good cheer To young and old, meek and the bold Ding, dong, ding, dong, that is their song, With joyful ring, all caroling One seems to hear words of good cheer From everywhere, filling the air O, how they pound, raising the sound O'er hill and dale, telling their tale Gaily they ring, while people sing Songs of good cheer, Yuletide is here! Merry, merry, merry, merry Yuletide! Merry, merry, merry, merry Yuletide! On, on they send, on without end Their joyful tone to every home Hark! How the bells, sweet silver bells All seem to say, "Throw cares away." Yuletide is here, bringing good cheer To young and old, meek and the bold Ding, dong, ding, dong, that is their song With joyful ring, all caroling. One seems to hear words of good cheer From everywhere, filling the air O, how they pound, raising the sound O'er hill and dale, telling their tale Gaily they ring, while people sing Songs of good cheer, Yuletide is here! Merry, merry, merry, merry Yuletide! Merry, merry, merry, merry Yuletide! On, on they send, on without end Their joyful tone to every home. ~ Chanukah/Solstice Words and Music by Linda Hirschhorn Recorded on 'Gather Round: Songs of Celebration And Renewal' Turning turning spirits yearning Reaching for the night Colors going, shadows growing Darkening the night Ancient story told, renewed with the cold Mystery of light, burnt into the night ~ Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire Music by Mel Torme Words by Robert Wells adapted by Susan M. Shaw Chestnuts roasting on an open fire Jack Frost nipping at your nose Yuletide carols being sung by a choir And folks dressed up like Eskimos Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe Help to make the season bright Tiny tots with their eyes all a glow Will find it hard to sleep tonight They know that Santa's on his way He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh And ev'ry mother's child is gonna spy To see if reindeer really know how to fly And so I'm offering this simple phrase To kids from one to ninety-two Although it's been said many times, many ways "Merry Yuletide to you!" ~ Christmas Day in the Morning Tune: I Saw Three Ships Author Unknown Children's laughter in the air The Smell of pine is everywhere With all the love that we can share On christmas day in the morning Thank the Lord and Lady then For that warm peace we feel within When we gather once again On Christmas Day in the Morning The wonder of the virgin birth The child who brought us love and mirth Giving all of his souls's worth On Christmas Day in the Morning Yet so many years before We knew the one we still adore The Lady guiding us to shore On Christmas day in the morning The yonder standing stones impart Awakening a hidden part Longing deep within our hearts On Christmas day in the morning With the ancient ones give voice Dance together is our choice Share the mysteries and rejoice On Christmas day in the morning Children's laughter in the air The Smell of pine is everywhere With all the love that we can share On christmas day in the morning ~ Christmas Time Is Pagan! Tune: Gloria in Excelsius Deo Author Unknown Christmas time is here again, Decorations everywhere. Christmas carols ringing out, Gentle pagans, we don't care. Chorus: Glorious! Christmas time is pagan! Glorious! Christmas time is pagan! Modern folks all celebrate What they learned in Sunday School. In December, they don't know They are celebrating Yule! Chorus Let them have their Christmas trees, Decked in red and green and blue. We rejoice at every one! Christmas trees are pagan, too. Chorus Bowls of bubbly Christmas cheer, Fill your cup and quench your thirst. They think the tradition's theirs. Wassail bowls were pagan, first. Chorus Every door and window bears Wreaths of holly, wreaths of pine. Circles represent the Sun. Every wreath is yours and mine. Chorus Christmas lights on Christmas trees, Candle flames burn higher and higher, Let us cheer along, my friends, As they light their Yuletide fire. Chorus There's a possibility That this song is yours and mine 'Cause the tune was known to all Back in A.D. one-two-nine. Chorus ~ Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland Tune: Walking in a Winter Wonderland words adapted by "Alexander & Aarcher" Pagans sing, are you listenin', Altar's set,candles glisten, It's a Magickal night, we're having tonight, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland. Chorus: In a Circle we can light a Yule Fire, And await the rising of the Sun, It's the Great Wheel turning for the new year, Loaded with abundance and great fun. Blades held high, censer smoking, God and Goddess, we're invoking, Through Elements Five, we celebrate life, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland. Queen of Heaven, is in Her place, Triple Goddess, now the Crone Face, Above and Below, She's the Goddess we know, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland. Chorus Now the God, is the Provider, Supplying game for our Fire, Above and Below, He's the Horned One we Know, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland. Later on, by the fire, Cone of Power, gettin' higher It's a Magickal Night we're having tonight, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland. ~ Day-O Tune: Day-O by Harry Belafonte words adapted by Tina Galfo (Get out your Harry Belafonte records and study the rhythm carefully - this song is a lot of fun with a set of hand drums!) Day-o, Day-o, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Day, misa day, misa day, misa day-o. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Tonight we dance till the morning come. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Tomorrow we greet the newborn Sun. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Now is the darkest season of the year but, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Now is the darkest season of the year but, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. The darkness flies before his face. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Light is returning to this place. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Day, misa day-o, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Day, misa day-o, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. The Lady has given birth to her son. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. When he grow up they gonna have some fun. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. The season wheel it will forever turn. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. As the fire within, it will ever burn. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Now is the darkest season of the year but, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Now is the darkest season of the year but, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Day, misa day-o, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Day, misa day-o, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Now is the darkest season of the year but. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Now is the darkest season of the year but. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Day-o, Day-o, Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. Day, misa day, misa day, misa day-o. Daylight come and the Sun is reborn. ~ Deck the Halls Traditional Carol Deck the halls with boughs of holly Fa la la la la la la la la Tis the season to be jolly Fa la la la la la la la la Don we now our gay apparel Fa la la la la la la la la Troll the ancient Yuletide carols Fa la la la la la la la la See the blazing Yule before us Fa la la la la la la la la Strike the harp and join the chorus Fa la la la la la la la la Follow me in merry measure Fa la la la la la la la la While I tell of Yuletide treasure Fa la la la la la la la la Fast away the old year passes Fa la la la la la la la la Hail the new, ye lads and lasses Fa la la la la la la la la Sing we joyous all together Fa la la la la la la la la Heedless of the wind and weather Fa la la la la la la la la ~ Dona Nobis Pacem (Grant Us Peace) Traditional Best sung as a round Dona nobis pacem, pacem Dona nobis pacem. Do-na nobis pacem Dona nobis pacem. Do-na nobis pacem Dona nobis pacem. ~ Faunus the Roman Goat Foot Tune: Rudolph the Red nosed Reindeer words adapted by Morven, Jennifer, Roger, Chip, & BG Faunus the Roman Goat-God Had a very rigid prick And if you ever saw it You would say it's quite a trick All the other deities Used to leer suggestively They always wanted Faunus To Join in the revelry Then one frosty Saturnal Juno made this call "Faunus since you're hung so well, Won't you ring my solstice bell?" Then all the others pouted And they muttered jealously "Faunus, the Roman goat-god Better save a turn for me!" ~ Frosty the Snowman Words and Music by Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins Frosty the Snowman was a jolly happy soul With a corncob pipe and a button nose And two eyes made out of coal Frosty the Snowman was a fairy tale, they say He was made of snow, but the children know How he came to life one day There must have been some magic In that old top hat they found For when they placed it on his head He began to dance around! Frosty the Snowman was alive as he could be And the children say he could laugh and play Just the same as you and me He led them down the streets of town Right to the traffic cop And he only paused a moment when He heard her holler, "Stop!" Frosty the Snowman had to hurry on his way But he said goodbye, saying "Don't you cry, I'll be back again some day!" ~ Gloria Tune: Gloria In Excelsis Deo (Angels We Have Heard On High) words adapted by Ellen Reed Snow lies deep upon the Earth Still our voices warmly sing Heralding the glorious birth Of the Child, the Winter King Chorus: Glo -- ria! In excelsis Deo! Glo -- ria! In excelsis Dea! Our triumphant voices claim Joy and hope and love renewed And our Lady's glad refrain Answer Winter's solitude Chorus In Her arms a holy Child Promises a glowing Light Through the winter wind so wild He proclaims the growing Light. Chorus Now the turning of the year Of the greater Turning sings Passing age of cold and fear Soon our golden summer brings. Chorus ~ Glory to the New Born King Traditional Carol words adapted by Ellen Reed (1st verse) Brothers, sisters, come to sing Glory to the new-born King! Gardens peaceful, forests wild Celebrate the Winter Child! Now the time of glowing starts! Joyful hands and joyful hearts! Cheer the Yule log as it burns! For once again the Sun returns! Brothers, sisters, come and sing! Glory to the new-born King! Brothers, sisters, singing come Glory to the newborn Sun Through the wind and dark of night Celebrate the coming light. Suns glad rays through fear's cold burns Life through death the Wheel now turns Gather round the Yule log and tree Celebrate Life's mystery Brothers, sisters, singing come Glory to the new-born Sun. ~ Gods Bless Ye Merry Paganfolk Tune: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen words adapted by Anie Burke-Webb Gods bless ye merry, Paganfolk Let nothing you afright There's naught but peace will touch us here On this the longest night For our Great Mother will give birth And turn the dark to light Chorus: And the Wheel's turning round and round Round and round. And the Wheel's turning round and round. Into the west's fast dimming light The Dark God must retreat As all of life must come at last To death the longest sleep But our Great Mother then gives birth The circle is complete Chorus At morning's first bright ray of light Arrives the Sun Child's birth Returning through the Mother's womb Life promised to the Earth Now that our Mother's labor's done Rejoice with song and mirth ~ God Rest Ye Merry, Paganfolk Tune: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen Author Unknown God rest ye merry, paganfolk, Let nothing you dismay. Remember that the Sun returns Upon this Solstice day. The growing dark is ending now And Spring is on its way. Oh, tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy! Oh, tidings of comfort and joy. The Goddess rest ye merry, too, And keep you safe from harm. Remember that we live within The circle of Her arms, And may Her love give years to come A very special charm. Oh, tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy! Oh, tidings of comfort and joy! ~ Gods Rest Ye Merry Tune: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen words adapted by Blake TaylorMixon inspired by Ellen Reed Gods rest ye merry gentlefolk Let nothing you dismay Remember that the on returns Upon this Solstice Day The growing dark is ended now And Spring is on its way Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy, Oh tidings of comfort and joy The people at this gathering Rejoice in heart and mind Old Winter's back is broken now And sorrows of all kind Within the darkness of the year A new hope we shall find. We gather in together Around a fire bright In cold and dark we recognize The Winter's longest night The bells ring out, our hearts rejoice We welcome back the light! ~ Gods Rest Ye Merry Paganfolk Tune: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen Author Unknown Gods rest ye merry pagan folk Let none of you dismay. Remember that the Sun returns Upon this Solstice Day The growing dark is ended now And spring is on its way Oh tidings of comfort and Joy Comfort and Joy Oh tidings of comfort and Joy The winter's worst still lies ahead Fierce Tempest Snow and Rain Beneath the blanket on the ground The Spark of life remains The Sun's warm rays caress the seeds To raise Life's song again Oh tidings of comfort and Joy Comfort and Joy Oh tidings of comfort and Joy Within the blessed apple lies The promise of the Queen For from this pentacle shall rise The orchards fresh and green The Earth shall blossom once again The air be sweet and clean Oh tidings of comfort and Joy Comfort and Joy Oh tidings of comfort and Joy ~ Good King Wenceslas I Traditional Carol words from the Wiccan Yule Songs of Balefire Coven Good King Wenceslas looked out On the Feast of Yule When the snow lay round about Deep in Winter's rule Brightly shone the Moon that night Though the frost was cruel When a poor roe came in sight Seeking winter fuel. "Hither, page, and stand by me If thou know'st it, telling yonder stag, O whose is he? Where and how his dwelling?" "Sire, he lives a good league hence Underneath the mountain Right against the forest fence By good Brighit's fountain." "Bring me apples; bring me corn Bring my warm clothes hither He shall dine `fore Solstice morn When we bring them thither." Page and monarch, forth they went Forth they went together through the rude wind's wild lament And the bitter weather. "Page, the night is darker now And the wind blows stronger Fails my heart, I know not how I can go no longer." "Mark my footsteps, my good King Tread thou in them boldly Thou shalt find fierce Winter's sting Freeze thy blood less coldly." In the Oak King's steps he trod Where the snow lay dinted Heat was in the very sod Which the God had printed. Therefore, Paganfolk, be sure Any rank possessing Ye who now will bless the Earth Shall, yourselves, find blessing. ~ Good King Wenceslas II Traditional Carol Author Unknown Good King Wenceslas looked out On the Feast of Stephen When the snow lay round about Deep and crisp and even Brightly shone the moon that night Though the frost was cruel When a poor man came in sight Gathering winter fuel. "Hither page and stand by me If thou know'st it, telling Yonder peasant, who is he Where and what his dwelling?" "Sire, he lives a good league hence Underneath the mountain Right against the forest fence By Saint Agnes' fountain." "Bring me flesh and bring me wine Bring me pine logs hither Thou and I will see him dine When we bear them thither." Page and monarch forth they went Forth they went together Through the rude wind's wild lament And the bitter weather. "Sire, the night is darker now And the wind blows stronger; Fails my heart, I know not how, I can go no longer." "Mark my footsteps, my good page; Tread thou in them boldly. Thou shalt find the winter's rage Freeze thy blood less coldly." Though the fire burned golden bright On the palace fender Twice as warm love's faithful light True and strong and tender Therefore people everywhere Wealth or rank possessing You who now will bless the poor Shall yourselves find blessing. ~ Good Morrow, Happy Paganfolk Tune: "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" words adapted by William Baldwin Good morrow, happy paganfolk, On this great day of Yule. And may ye brightly celebrate And sing and dance and fool. And deeply drain the wine of life From Heaven's glistening pool. Chorus: O partake of the ecstasy and joy, Laughter and joy, O partake of the ecstasy and joy. The good and gracious Lady, Her only law is love, To cherish every living thing Below us and above, She reigneth as She did of old The Queen of Heaven above. Chorus The great and mighty Horned One Whose trident some do see, Destroys and builds the world anew From Birth and Death and Thee! He leads us through illusion To the everliving tree. Chorus Now may the GODS and GODDESSES Bestow on us the grace, To ever walk in balance with The Spirits of the place. And lead us all to Paradise To greet them face to face. Chorus ~ Good Pagan Folk, Rejoice Tune: Good Christian Men Rejoice Author Unknown Good Pagan folk, rejoice With heart and soul and voice Give ye heed to what we say News! News! Our Lord the Sun is born today Great him as the dawn's first light Bids farewell to dark of night The Sun returns today The Sun returns today Good Pagan folk, rejoice With heart and soul and voice Gather round the Yuletide tree Peace! Peace! Hope he brings for you and me Winter's cold is nearly gone We wait for spring with Joyous song Our Lord returns to Earth Our Lord returns to Earth Good Pagan folk, rejoice With heart and soul and voice Praise our Lady, praise her Son Joy! Joy! New life they bring to everyone Dance and sing and merry meet As the Lord of Light we greet The Sun returns today The Sun returns today ~ Hark! Tune: Hark the Herald Angels Sing (Gloria In Excelsis Deo) words adapted by Blake TaylorMixon Hark the people all shall cry See the new sun in the sky Hail the rebirth of the sun Winter's turn is now begun Darkness soon shall pass away Spring to follow in its day Come and gather here to sing Glorious light the sun will bring Hark the people all shall cry See the new sun in the sky! Mark the passing of the year Gather 'round and bring good cheer Peace on earth is what we need Joined as one we can succeed Joyful then can nations rise Joined in one triumphant cry Power to the ones who stand Heart to heart and hand in hand Mark the passing of the year Gather 'round and bring good cheer! ~ Hark the Neo-Pagans Sing Tune: "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" words adapted by "Sunblade" Hark the neo-Pagans sing, Glory to the Holly King! Peace on Earth and mercy mild, God and Goddess reconciled, Hear us now as we proclaim, We have risen from the flames, Our ancient Craft now we reclaim, In the God and Goddess' names Hark the neo-Pagans sing, Glory to the Holly King! Herne by highest love adored, Herne the ever-reborn Lord, At all times behold Him come, Offspring of the Holy One, Veiled in flesh, the Godhead see, Hail Incarnate Deity! Our ancient Craft now we reclaim, in the God and Goddess' names Hark the neo-Pagans sing, Glory to the Holly King! ~ Have Yourself a Merry Little Yuletide Tune: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane words adapted by Hilda Marshall Have yourself a merry little Yuletide Let your heart be light From now on our troubles will be out of sight Have yourself a merry little Yuletide Make the Sabbat gay From now on our troubles will be miles away. Chorus: Here we are as in olden days Happy golden days of yore Faithful friends who are dear to us Gather near to us once more. Through the years we all will be together If the Fates allow Hang a shining star upon the highest bough And have yourself a merry little Yuletide now. ~ Hear Diana Words and Music by BarleySinger Crystal light, the dragon's might, Pulling down the silver light. Hallowed glen, we move again, The Solstice is tonight. Chorus: (sing twice) Hear Diana, voices calling On this longest night. We are one in fairy glen Within the silver light. Verse 2: Dragon pow'r and fairy flower, Magic in the air. Old and new are one with you A single thought they share. Chorus: (2x) Verse 3: Mistletoe, the herbs that grow, And crystals from the earth, Show the ways to elder days, Upon the ancient earth. Chorus: (2x) Repeat Verse 1 and (Chorus 2x) ~ Here We Come A-Wassailing Traditional Carol chorus by Hilda Marshall Here we come a wassailing Among the leaves so green Here we come a-wandering So fair to be seen Chorus: Love and joy come to you Peace and hope and friendship too And we bless you and wish you a happy new year And we wish you a happy new year! Chorus We are not daily beggars who Beg from door to door But we are neighbors' children Whom you have seen before Chorus We have got a little purse Of stretching leather skin We want a little money To line it well within Chorus Call up the butler of this house Put on his golden ring Let him bring us a glass of beer And better we shall sing Chorus Bring us out a table and spread it with a cloth Bring us out a moldy cheese And some of your Yuletide loaf Chorus God bless the master of the house The mistress bless also And all the little children Around the table go Chorus Good master and good mistress While you sit by the fire Pray think of us poor children A-wand'ring in the mire ~ Holly King Suggested Tune: In the Bleak Midwinter Source Unknown Sing we of a mystery, now as long ago Blood red holly berries, blood upon on the snow The Oak king shall rise, the waxing year to bring Therefore bid we farewell to the Holly king Now in deep midwinter all seems in a trance Comes the golden Oak King in his age old dance Comes he to slay, yet honor he does he bring To his fallen brother the darksome Holly King In the bright midsummer the year's wheel turned around Then shall be the Oak King's blood upon the ground Ever it comes, once more the years waning Then shall be victorious the Darksome Holly King Sing we of the Mystery now as long ago Blood red holly berries, blood upon on the snow The Oak king shall rise waxing year to bring Therefore bid we farewell to the Holly king ~ In the Bleak Midwinter Music by Gustav Holst first verse by Christina Rosetti, slightly altered Additional verses by Laura Deal Raeder In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind makes moan. Earth stands hard as iron, water like a stone. Snow has fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow. In the bleak midwinter, it is ever so. Darkness now surrounds us as the nights grow long, Yet we fill the night time with our hopeful song. Winter's cold won't reach us here, where we light our fire, As we burn the old year on its funeral pyre. Now the new year beckons, even in this night. Soon the days will lengthen, and our hearts grow light. Hope will grow within us as we look ahead, And we see that spring wakes out of winter's bed. Light will follow darkness, as the earth turns round, Sunlight follows moonlight, thawing frozen ground. So our lives renew with every dawning day, And with every new year, blue skies follow gray. ~ Jingle Bell Rock Words and Music by Joe Beal and Jim Boothe Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring Snowin' and blowin' are bushels of fun Now the jingle rock has begun Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time Dancin' and prancin' in Jingle Bell Square In the frosty air What a bright time, it's the right time To rock the night away Jingle bell time is a swell time To go ridin' in a one-horse sleigh Giddy up, jingle horse, pick up your feet Jingle around the clock Mix and mingle in a jingle bell beat That's the Jingle Bell Rock! ~ Jingle Bells Words and Music by John Pierpont Dashing through the snow In a one-horse open sleigh O'er the fields we go Laughing all the way Bells on bob-tails ring Making spirits bright What fun it is to ride and sing A sleighing song tonight! Chorus: Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way Oh, what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh! Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way Oh, what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh! A day or two ago I thought I'd take a ride Soon Miss Fanny Bright Was seated at my side The horse was lean and lank Misfortune seem'd his lot He got into a drifed bank And we, we got upsot! Chorus Now the ground is white Go it while you're young Take the girls tonight And sing this sleighing song Just get a bob-tailed bay Two-forty for his speed Then hitch him to an open sleigh And crack! You'll take the lead! Chorus ~ Joy to the World I Music by Lowell Mason words adapted by Lunaea Wetherstone Joy to the World! The Sun returns! Let all who live rejoice! Let every heart receive the healing light And every voice be heard And every voice be heard And every voice in song be heard! ~ Joy to the World II Music by Lowell Mason Author Unknown Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Let Earth receive her king! Let every heart prepare him room And Heaven and Nature sing And Heaven and Nature sing And Heaven and Heaven and Nature sing. Welcome our King who brings us life Our Lady gives him birth! His living light returneth to warm the seeds within us And wake the sleeping earth And wake the sleeping earth And wake and wake the sleeping earth. Light we the fires to greet our Lord, Our Light! Our Life! Our King! Let every voice be lifted to sing his holy praises As Heaven and Nature sing As Heaven and Nature sing As Heaven as Heaven and Nature sing. Joy to the Earth! The Light returns! And sunlight fills the air The tide has turned, the Sun has been reborn. And hope is everywhere And hope is everywhere And hope, and hope, is everywhere. Dark ruled the Earth, and death has reined But on the Wheel does spin From out the womb of night, is birthed the Infant Light. The Sun has come again The Sun has come again The Sun, the Sun, has come again. Mother of all, to You we sing! In praise this glorious morn. For Earth and Sky, fire, water, and life. In You we are reborn, in You we are reborn, in You, in You, we are reborn. ~ Joy to the World III Music by Lowell Mason Author Unknown Joy to the world! The Lady walks, O let the echoes ring! The power of Her love each single heart unlocks, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing. Joy to the world! For peace shall reign As we, our (wimmin) pow'r employ! O, field & flood, rock, hill, & plain, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy. We share the world with truth & grace, & let our blessings prove The glories of our carefulness, And wonders of our love, And wonders of our love, And wonders, wonders, of our love. ~ Joy to the World IV Music by Lowell Mason words adapted by Karen Deal Robinson Joy to the world, the new year's come. Now earth prepares for spring. Let every hearth with firelight bloom, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven, and heaven and nature sing. Joy to the earth, now gladness reigns, And birds their songs employ, While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat the sounding joy. No more will cold and darkness grow, Though frost still coats the ground. We wait to hear the rivers flow As far as hope is found, As far as hope is found, As far, as far as hope is found. She heals the earth with truth and grace, And asks us all to prove The glories of Her righteousness And wonders of Her love, And wonders of Her love, And wonders, and wonders of Her love. ~ Joy to the World Tune by Lowell Mason words adapted by Blake TaylorMixon Joy to the world, the Solstice is here And soon will follow Spring Let every heart prepare for the new year, And heaven and nature sing... Joining as one our voices in song The dark is overcome The days are growing longer The light is getting stronger We welcome back the sun... ~ Lady Moon Shine Softly Tune: O Little Town of Bethlehem Author Unknown Lady moon shines softly down To light the Earth below As we, her children, gather here Around the Yule fire's glow We wait for morning's dawning First light of holy birth Our Lady turns the wheel of life Her Son returns to Earth With joy we'll greet his dawning A new year has begun With increased light is bright new hope Reborn in Everyone. ~ Masters in This Hall Tune: Masters in This Hall Author Unknown Masters in this Hall Hear the news today From messengers of old who won't be turned away Masters in this hall, Open up the door Hear her footsteps now approaching, Heed her voice we do implore Masters in this Hall Open up your eyes Now the Lady stands before you Children of the earth arise Masters in this Hall, hear what we do say The Goddess has come in and she is here to stay The Goddess has come i-in And no folks should be sad Come with us, we praise, we si-ing, Hail the Queen, rejoice, be glad The goddess has come in Where all men make good cheer Tidings of her joy we bring you, Banish freely tides of fear Masters in this Hall, hear what we do say The Goddess has come in and she is here to stay ~ May Ye Be Merry, Gentlefolk Tune: "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" words adapted by Karen Deal Robinson May ye be merry, gentlefolk, Let nothing you dismay. Although the nights are cold and dark This is the shortest day. And soon the days will grow again As springtime comes our way. Oh, tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy. Oh, tidings of comfort and joy. The midnight moon rides high and clear On this the longest night, And in the frosty darkness The stars are burning bright, And though the sun is buried deep The sky is filled with light. Oh, tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy. Oh, tidings of comfort and joy. ~ Moon of Silver I Tune: We Three Kings Author Unknown Maiden, Mother, Ancient Crone, Queen of Heaven on your throne, Praise we sing Thee, Love we bring Thee, For all that you have shown. Chorus: Oh, Moon of Silver, Sun of Gold, Gentle Lady, Lord so bold! Guide us ever, failing never, Lead us in ways of old. Lord of Darkness, Lord of Light, Gentle Brother, King of Might, Praise we sing thee, Love we bring Thee On this Solstice night. Chorus ~ Moon of Silver II Tune: We Three Kings words adapted by Carusone Come Thou, Lord, the Newborn Sun, Come, Sweet Mother, Holy One. Praise we sing Thee, Love we bring Thee As ever shall be done. Chorus: Oh, moon of silver, sun of gold! Gentle Lady, Lord so bold! Guide us ever, failing never, lead us all in ways of old. Maiden, Mother, Ancient Crone, Queen of Heaven on your throne, Praise we sing Thee, Love we bring Thee, For all that you have shown. Chorus Lord of Darkness, Lord of Light, Gentle Brother, King of Might! Praise we sing Thee, Love we bring Thee On this Solstice Night. Chorus ~ Mother Berta's Coming to Town Tune: Santa Claus Is Coming to Town Author Unknown You better watch out when winter comes nigh You better not doubt, I'm telling you why Mother Berta's coming to town She carries a sack made out of skin She dumps the toys out and stuffs the kids in Mother Berta's coming to town She rides on Master Skeggi A Goat whose back is strong Her beard is grey and scraggly And her tail is ten feet long! With six or eight horns, a moustache or two Make a mistake, she's coming for YOU! Mother Berta's coming to town. She knows with whom your sleeping She knows with whom you wake She knows each thought you're thinking So don't THINK! For Goddess sake So when the winds howl way up in the sky Listen as she and Skeggi pass by Mother Berta's coming Mother Berta's coming Mother Berta's coming Mother Berta's coming to town ~ O Come All Ye Neighbors Tune: Adeste Fideles (Oh Come All Ye Faithful) words adapted by Blake TaylorMixon Oh come all ye neighbors, joyful with each other O come ye, o come ye on Solstice night Come and behold it, mystery unfolding O come and join the chorus O come and join the chorus O come and join the chorus The sun is reborn. Sing all together, sing with hearts rejoicing O sing all ye citizens and gather around Glory above, the sun is now returning. Yea sun we greet thee, reborn this happy morning Rising in glory you return from afar Dance of the heavens, music never ending. ~ O Holy Night I Music by Adolphe Adam words adapted by Dianne T. DeShea O holy night! The stars shine in their brightness. It is the night of the dear Sun Child's birth. Long lay the world in growing cold and darkness 'Til He appeared, casting light o'er the earth. A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn. All nature sings! Oh raise your joyous voices! Oh night divine! This night the Sun is born! Oh night divine! Oh night, oh night divine! ~ O Holy Night II Music by Adolphe Adam words adapted by Shekhinah Mountainwater O holy night, the stars are brightly shining. It is the night of the Sun God's rebirth Long lay the world, in cold and darkness pining. `Til He appeared, and the soul felt its worth. A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices. For yonder breaks, a new and glorious morn. Rise from your knees! O hear the Pagan's voices! O night divine. O night when light was born. O night divine. O night divine. [Variant Verses] O holy night, the stars are brightly shining It is the night of the Goddess's birth Long lay the world in patriarchy pining Til She appeared and the soul felt its worth A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn Rise from your knees! O hear the women's voices! O night divine, O night when Light is born O night divine, O night, O night divine. ~ O Holy Night III Music by Adolphe Adam Author Unknown O holy night, so peaceful, dark, and quiet We're stuffed and tipsy, each Priestess and Priest Witches are holy, but find it hard to diet We may not orgy, but boy, can we feast! With stew and wassail, apples, nuts, and pumpkin We celebrate the deepest truths of life Please, pass the salt. Oh, taste that turkey dressing Oh, what will we weigh after seconds on the corn Oh, what a way to pray! On this night when God's reborn. ~ O Holy Night IV Music by Adolphe Adam Author Unknown O holy night the stars are brightly shining It is the night of the sun's rebirth Long lay the land, In cold of winter pining Till he appears to shine warmth on the Earth A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices As yonder breaks the new and glorious dawn Sing now with Joy O sing in celebration O night divine O night, of holy birth O night, divine O night O night divine Moon up above We gather in your soft light And wait for him, son of light to appear Orb of our mother Who holds us in her keeping Send us your child To bring warmth to our souls The winter is cold, the nights are long in darkness We long for the spring , the hope that now begins Sing now with Joy O sing in celebration O night divine O night, of holy birth O night, divine O night O night divine ~ O Tannenbaum I Traditional Carol Author Unknown O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy leaves are so unchanging O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy leaves are so unchanging Not only green when summer's here But also when 'tis cold and drear O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy leaves are so unchanging O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You fill all hearts with gaiety O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You fill all hearts with gaiety On Solstice Day you stand so tall Affording joy to one and all O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You fill all hearts with gaiety O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You stand in verdant beauty O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You stand in verdant beauty Your boughs are green in summer's glow And do not fade in winter's snow O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You stand in verdant beauty O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Much pleasure doth thou bring me O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Much pleasure doth thou bring me For ev'ry year thou lovely tree Brings to us all both joy and glee O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Much pleasure doth thou bring me O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy candles shine out brightly O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy candles shine out brightly Each bough doth hold its tiny light That makes each day to sparkle bright O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy candles shine out brightly ~ O Tannenbaum II Traditional Carol words adapted by Hilda Marshall O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum How true you stand unchanging! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum How true you stand unchanging! Your boughs so green in summertime Remain as green in wintertime O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum How true you stand unchanging! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum Your message is enduring! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum Your message is enduring! Of all the trees of field and hill You best recall the Lady's will O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum Your message is enduring! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum You teach us hope and patience! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum You teach us hope and patience! Through icy day and frozen night You bear the promise of the Light O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum You teach us hope and patience! ~ O Yuletide Tree Tune: O Tannenbaum Author Unknown O Yuletide Tree, O Yuletide Tree How lovely are thy branches O Yuletide Tree, O Yuletide Tree How lovely are thy branches Bring joyful tidings of great cheer O Yuletide Tree, O Yuletide Tree To us you are so lovely. O Yuletide Tree, O Yuletide Tree Evergreen and fragrant O Yuletide Tree, O Yuletide Tree Evergreen and fragrant We bring you in our home to be A sign of life's eternity O Yuletide Tree, O Yuletide Tree Forever green and lovely O Yuletide Tree, O Yuletide Tree Thank you for your blessings O Yuletide Tree, O Yuletide Tree Thank you for your blessings with golden stars and twinkling light You cheer us on this holy night O Yuletide Tree, O Yuletide Tree Thou art most fair and lovely ~ Oh, Come All Ye Faithful Traditional Carol (Adeste Fideles) words adapted by Ellen Reed Oh, come all ye faithful Gather round the Yule Fire Oh, come ye, oh, come ye, To call the Sun! Fires within us Call the Fire above us O, come, let us invoke Him! O, come, let us invoke Him! O, come, let us invoke Him! Our Lord, the Sun! Yea, Lord, we greet Thee! Born again at Yuletide! Yule fires and candle flames Are lighted for You! Come to thy children Calling for thy blessing! O, come let us invoke Him O, come let us invoke Him O, come let us invoke Him Our Lord, the Sun! ~ One More Christmas Tree Tune: O, Christmas Tree words adapted by Daniel J. Thompson O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree Made of al-u-min-i-um. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree You can get them, anyone. Some are big, and some are small. You can get any size at all. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree Made of al-u-min-i-um. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree I sell them for ten dollars. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree They come in many colors. Some are red, and some are blue. They even come in plastic, too! O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree I sell them for ten dollars. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree You should buy one now from me. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree Satisfaction guaranteed. From now until the twenty-third The lowest price you've ever heard. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree Buy one now, and get one FREE! ~ Our Lady Greensleeves I Tune: Greensleeves Author Unknown Midwinter moon is shining bright The yuletide log is burning. The people gather 'round tonight The Sabbat wheel is turning. Joy! Mirth! The Sun's rebirth! Now as of old we greet Thee. Gladdening is the song we sing Of praises to the Lady. 'Twas at the feast of bright Beltane When we all were a-Maying, Sweet minstrel Queen in Her gown of green Spring roundelay was playing. And though now roped in snow Her wintry garb deceives, for Bedipped with holly and mistletoe She is still Our Lady Greensleeves. So drink ye wassail everyone Good Pagans all made merry With wine as red as the reborn Sun, As red as holly-berry. Dancing, come join the ring, As Her Yuletide spell she weaves. Fair Queen, the evergreen, Sweet lovely Lady Greensleeves. ~ Our Lady Greensleeves II Tune: Greensleeves (What Child Is This?) Author Unknown The winter moon is shining bright The yuletide log is burning Good people gather and tonight the sabbat wheel is turning Joy, Mirth, the Sun's rebirth Noels of old we greet thee Life's ring is the song we sing of praises of the Lady T'was at the feast of bright Beltaine when we all were a maying Sweet minstrel, pleated her gown of grains Spring round the lady was playing And though now robed in snow Her wintery garb deceives For bedecked with holly and mistletoe She is still our Lady Greensleeves So drink thee wassail everyone Good pagans all make merry With wine as red as the reborn sun As red as Holly berry Dance, sing, come join the ring As the yuletide's boughs she weaves Fair Queen, the evergreen, Sweet lovely Lady Greensleeves ~ Pagans, One and All Tune: "Masters in This Hall" words by Willow Firesong Verse 1: Pagans one and all Hear what I do say Words from deep within And ever I you pray Chorus: Hail hail hail to the Earth below Mother of all life upon her, and the source of all we know Hail hail hail to the Sun above Our Lord the Sun is born again, the source of Light and Love Verse 2: Born again at Solstice, the Sun God rules the Winter Skies; His Consort, Earth our Mother; The Year between them flies. Chorus Verse 3: Through the days of Springtime The Sun God grows apace Turning to Her flowers A gentle, smiling face. Chorus Verse 4: Come the May and Beltaine, The Sun God gains the Lady's Love. Her mantle green with courting; His fullness reigns above. Chorus Verse 5: Through the blaze of Summer, The Sun God burns his fiercest then His pride is in his Lover; The growth she shows within. Chorus Verse 6: Come the time of First Fruits The Sun God then his strength has spent The essence of his being Flows forth, as through a rent. Chorus Verse 7: Then begins the Autumn, His Mother, Night, weeps out her rains And taking him within her, The cycle starts again. Chorus Verse 8: With laughter and with feasting Through the growing Winter's night The Lady grows to Solstice, The rebirth of the Light. Chorus Verse 9: Watch her swelling belly As Night spreads through the skies The Lady of the Winter, The Moon between her thighs. Chorus Verse 10: Caught between the uprights, See the shining Solstice star. The Hinge-pin of the Winter, Now push the door ajar! Chorus Verse 11: Through the Lady's Labors On this longest Winter's Night Comes the Growing Sun God The rebirth of the Light! Chorus Verse 12: Dark the night has gripped us Through the building Winter's Cold So round the fires we gather As in days of old. Chorus Verse 13: From the crackling fire Watch the sparks leap to the sky Conjuring the Sun King To once again ride high Chorus Verse 14: In the deep Midwinter Through the frozen snow Comes the Sun reborn To set the skies aglow Chorus Verse 15: So in the depths of Darkness Observe the Shining Solstice Star That marks the depths of Winter Means Springtime won't be far. ~ Share the Light Tune: The First Noel Author Unknown On this Winter holiday, let us stop and recall That this season is holy to one and to all. Unto some a Son is born, unto us comes a Sun, And we know, if they don't that all paths are one. Chorus: Share the light, share the light! Share the light, share the Light! All paths are one on this holy night! Be it Chanukah or Yule, Christmas time or Solstice night, All celebrate the eternal light. Lighted tree or burning log, Or eight candle flames. All gods are one god, whatever their names. Chorus ~ Silent Night I Traditional Carol words adapted by Ellen Reed Silent night, Solstice Night All is calm, all is bright Nature slumbers in forest and glen Till in Springtime She wakens again Sleeping spirits grow strong! Sleeping spirits grow strong! Silent night, Solstice night Silver moon shining bright Snowfall blankets the slumbering Earth Yule fires welcome the Sun's rebirth Hark, the Light is reborn! Hark, the Light is reborn! Silent night, Solstice night Quiet rest till the Light Turning ever the rolling Wheel Brings the Winter to comfort and heal Rest your spirit in peace! Rest your spirit in peace! ~ Silent Night II Tune: "Silent Night" words adapted by Karen Deal Robinson Silent night, holy night, All is calm, all is bright. Starlight gleams upon the snow. In our hands the candles glow, As we sing of peace. As we sing of peace. Silent night, holy night, We will share love's pure light. Radiant beams from every face Tell our dreams for every place. Hope again is born, Hope again is born. ~ Silver and Gold Words and Music by Johnny Marks words adapted by Susan M. Shaw Silver and gold, silver and gold Ev'ryone wishes for silver and gold How do you measure its worth? Just by the pleasure it gives here on earth Silver and gold, silver and gold Mean so much more when I see Silver and gold decorations On ev'ry Yuletide tree ~ Silver Bells Traditional Carol words adapted by Hilda Marshall City sidewalks, busy sidewalks Dressed in holiday style In the air there's a feeling of giving Children laughing, people passing Meeting smile after smile And on every street corner you hear... Silver bells, silver bells Yuletide returns to the city Ring-a-ling, hear them ring Chiming the winter away Strings of street lights, even stoplights Blink a bright red and green As the shoppers rush home with their treasures Hear the snow crunch, see the kids bunch Eyes as bright as their dreams And on every street corner you hear Silver bells, silver bells Yuletide returns to the city Ring-a-ling, hear them ring Chiming the winter away ~ Sleigh Ride Words and Music by Leroy Anderson Just hear those sleigh bells jingling Ring-ting-tingling too Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you. Outside the snow is falling And friends are calling "Yoo-hoo!" Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you. Giddy-up, giddy-up, giddy-up, let's go Let's look at the show We're riding in a wonderland of snow Giddy-up, giddy-up, giddy-up, it's grand Just holding your hand We're riding along with a song Of a wintry fairyland! Our cheeks are nice and rosy And comfy cozy are we We're snuggled up together Like two birds of a feather would be Let's take that road before us And sing a chorus or two Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you There's a birthday party at the home of Farmer Gray It'll be the perfect ending of a perfect day We'll be singing the songs we love to sing Without a single stop By the fireside where we watch the chestnuts pop (Pop pop pop!) There's a happy feeling nothing in the world can buy When we pass around the coffee and the pumpkin pie It'll nearly be like a picture print by Currier & Ives These wonderful things are the things We remember all through our lives Just hear those sleigh bells jingling Ring-ting-tingling too Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you. Outside the snow is falling And friends are calling "Yoo-hoo!" Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you. ~ Solstice Day in the Morning Tune: I Saw Three Ships (Christmas Day in the Morning) words adapted by Willow Firesong Children's laughter in the air The Smell of pine is everywhere With all the love that we can share On Solstice day in the morning Thank the Lord and Lady then For that warm peace we feel within When we gather once again On Solstice Day in the Morning The wonder of the Sun's rebirth The child who brings us love and mirth Enhancing all our own souls's worth On Solstice Day in the Morning Yet so many years before We knew the one we still adore The Lady guiding us to shore On Solstice day in the morning With the ancient ones give voice Dance together is our choice Share the mysteries and rejoice On Solstice day in the morning Children's laughter in the air The Smell of pine is everywhere With all the love that we can share On Solstice day in the morning ~ The Holly and the Ivy I Traditional Carol words adapted by Susan M. Shaw The holly and the ivy When they are both full grown Of all the trees that are in the wood The holly bears the crown The rising of the sun And the running of the deer The playing of the merry tunes As we Pagans sing with cheer The holly bears a blossom White as the lily flower The Goddess shares the Solstice Sun Days grow longer with its power The rising of the sun And the running of the deer We celebrate with joyous hearts The Wheel of the Year The holly bears a berry As red as any blood The Goddess brings the Solstice Sun To allow our hopes to bud The rising of the sun And the running of the deer These blessed signs of life's renewal Will banish any fear The holly bears a prickle As sharp as any thorn The Goddess lights the Solstice Sun As we welcome the new morn The rising of the sun And the running of the deer The Green Man and the Holly King Are always welcome here The holly bears a bark As bitter as any gall The Goddess gives the Solstice Sun For the wonder of us all The rising of the sun And the running of the deer In perfect love and perfect trust May our hearts be ever clear The holly and the ivy When they are both full grown Of all the trees that are in the wood The holly bears the crown The rising of the sun And the running of the deer The playing of the merry tunes As we Pagans sing with cheer ~ The Holly and the Ivy II Traditional Carol words adapted by Hilda Marshall The holly and the ivy When they are both full grown Of all the trees that are in the wood The holly bears the crown. Chorus: Oh, the rising of the sun And the running of the deer The shining of the winter stars As the longer days draw near. The holly bears a blossom As white as any flower As our Mother bears the infant Sun In the winter's darkest hour. Chorus The holly bears a berry As red as any blood As our Father bears the hunter's spear for His hungry children's good. Chorus The holly bears a prickle As sharp as any thorn As we shall bear our song of hope On triumphant Yuletide morn. Chorus ~ The Holly and the Ivy III Tune: Traditional Carol Author Unknown The Holly and the Ivy When they are both full grown Of all the trees that are in the wood The Holly bears the crown Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The turning of the winter season Sweet singing all may hear. The Holly bears a berry As red as any blood And the ivy grows upon the rock Evergreen throughout the wood. Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The hand upon the harpstring Sweet singing in the choir The Holly bears a blossom White as the lily's flower And the Goddess bears the Sun again To bring us strength and power Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The playing of the merry pipes Sweet singing in the shire The Holly bears a prickle As sharp as any thorn And the Goddess in her ivy gown Greets the winter sun each morn Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The playing of the merry organ Sweet singing in the choir The Holly ever bears a bark Bitter as any gall And the ivy weaves within our lives Like the Goddess in us all Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The turning of the winter season Sweet singing all may hear ~ The Holly and the Ivy IV Traditional Carol words adapted by Peter Soderberg (Circle Network News, Winter 1981) The holly and the ivy, when they are both full grown, of all the trees that are in the woods the holly bears the crown Chorus: Oh, the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long--the Wheel of the Year. O, the Ivy is a Maiden, the Holly is her love, As they entwine at Yuletide, the Lady smiles above. Chorus The holly blooms in glory when solstice-day is near. We burn the Yule log to make the new-born Sun appear. Chorus 'Tis at Yule when the Mother gives birth to coming Spring; In the midst of winter-cold; the new-born Sun, the holly king. Chorus Throughout the land She wanders with the new day-lit god, And in the spring, sweet love is made where'er Her foot has trod. Chorus She is in all our doings, in all we love and fear-- How wondrous the ways in which our Lady does appear! Chorus Praise the Queen of Air and Darkness, of Fire and Water: All poetry's our Lady's art, all music sings to Her. Chorus All in the holy circle, hand to hand, we pass the blade to invoke the Lady's power, unsheathed by the Ivy Maid. Chorus Now blessed be the Earth at rest beneath our feet As we have hope of rest one day, our Lady for to greet. Chorus Out of darkness shall come dawning, out of winter shall come spring, Out of the toil of striving comes the peace our Lady brings. Chorus ~ The Holly and the Ivy V Traditional Carol words adapted by Tina Galfo The holly and the ivy, In the forest side by side, As the Lady and the Horned One Together shall abide. Chorus: The leaping of the cauldron And the dancing by its light. The singing of the Solstice carols To celebrate this night. Our Lady is the Goddess Who brings us joy on earth. Let us dance around her circle, The circle of rebirth. Chorus The moon is riding high, Tis the winter of the year. But beside the blazing fire Is warm comfort and good cheer. Chorus Tonight is cold and dark But tomorrow we shall see, The coming of the Sun-King In light and majesty. Chorus ~ The Holly and the Ivy VI Traditional Carol Author Unknown Oh the Holly and the ivy when they are both full grown In wintertime when all is dead they bear the living crown Oh the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long, the turning of the year Oh the ivy is the maiden, the holly is her love As they entwine at Yuletide the Lady smiles above Oh the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long, the turning of the year The Holly blooms in glory when the solstice day is near We burn the yule log to make the new-born Sun appear Oh the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long, the turning of the year 'Tis at Yule when the Mother gives birth to the coming Spring In the midst of winter cold; the new-born Sun, Holly King Oh the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long, the turning of the year Throughout the land she wanders with the new day-lit god And in the Spring sweet love is made where'ere Her foot has trod Oh the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long, the turning of the year She is in all our loving, in all we love and fear, How wondrous is the way in which our Lady doth appear Oh the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long, the turning of the year Praise the Queen of Air and Earth, of Fire and Water All poetry's our Lady's art, all music sings to her Oh the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long, the turning of the year All in the holy Circle, hand to hand we pass the blade To invoke the Lady's power unsheathed by the Ivy Maid Oh the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long, the turning of the year Now Blessed be the Earth at rest beneath our feet As we have hope of rest one day, our Lady for to greet Oh the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long, the turning of the year Out of Darkness shall come dawning, out of Winter shall come Spring Out of the toil of striving comes the peace our Lady brings ~ The Holly and the Ivy VII Tune: "The Holly and the Ivy" words adapted by Karen Deal Robinson Oh the holly and the ivy, Now they are both full grown, Of all the trees that are in the wood The holly bears the crown. Chorus: Oh the rising of the sun, The running of the deer. All merry folk arise and sing To greet the dawning year. Oh the holly bears a berry As red as any blood, And the ivy grows beneath the snows That blanket all the wood. Chorus Oh the holly bears a blossom As white as any flower, And the ivy turns the winter wood To a green and leafy bower. Chorus Oh the holly bears a bark Bitter as any gall, And the ivy leaves are shaped like stars In the skies above us all. Chorus Oh the holly bears a prickle As sharp as any thorn, And the ivy climbs on hills and towers To greet the Yuletide morn. Chorus ~ The Light Has Been Reborn Tune: Good Christian Men Rejoice words by William Baldwin The Light has been reborn Upon this happy morn. Sing O sing in jubilee. Oh, oh, Io Io Evohee! Sing O sing glad tidings. The round of life is new begun: Mother - Father - Daughter. Mother - Father - Son. ~ The Solstice Child Tune: What Child is This? (Greensleeves) Lunaea Wetherstone What child is this who brings such light that all who see Her grow hopefull? The Solstice candles, this darkest night, rekindle a flame in our soul. This, this is the Solstice child, the Maiden brilliant, the Maiden wild. Come, sisters, to hold Her near, the hope and the light of the New Year. [Variant] What Child is this, who brings such light That all who see Him grow hopeful The Solstice candles, this darkest night Rekindle a flame in our soul This, this is the Solstice Child The Sun God brilliant, the Sun God wild Come, Pagans, to hold Him near The hope and the light of the New Year ~ The Thirteen Days of Solstice Tune: The Twelve Days of Christmas words adapted by Shekhinah Mountainwater On the first day of Solstice the Goddess sent to me, some healing to set me free. On the second day of Solstice the Goddess sent to me, Gifts from my love and some healing to set me free. etc. 1. Some healing to set me free 2. Gifts from my love 3. A helping dream 4. A branch of evergreen 5. Joyous song! 6. Greetings from my neighbors 7. Magick for the year 8. Fine conversation 9. Nine pearls of wisdom 10. Candles for the lighting 11. Deep contemplation 12. Showers of abundance 13. A grand celebration ~ The Twelve Days of Yuletide Tune: The Twelve Days of Christmas words adapted by Carusone On the first day of Yuletide my true love gave to me, a Circle 'round a Pine Tree. On the second day of Yuletide my true love gave to me, Two pointed Horns and a Circle 'round a Pine Tree. etc. A Circle 'round a Pine Tree Two pointed Horns Three Silver Cups Four Pentagrams Five Magick Rings Six critters Fetching Seven Candles Glowing Eight Fires Blazing Nine Herbs a-Brewing Ten Stones a-Standing Eleven Brooms a-Flying Twelve Witches Dancing ~ Triple Solstice Goddess Tune: We Three Kings Music by John H. Hopkins words by Lunaea Weatherstone Goddesses of the Solstice are we Bringers of the Star and the Tree Maiden, Mother, Crone uncover Winter's deep mystery Chorus: Oh, time of wisdom, time of light Time of Winter's darkest night Goddess hold me, Love enfold me Open me to Your light Maiden of the darkness, I sing Underworlds of wisdom, I bring Seeking, learning, Kore returning Bearing the light of Spring Chorus Demeter, the slumbering Earth Dreaming of the Daughter's rebirth Candles lighted, world united Knowing our own true worth Chorus Crone of deepest wisdom, I dwell Deep in Time's mysterious well Dreaming, daring, teaching, sharing Hecate's secret spell Chorus ~ Up On the Housetop Traditional Carol words adapted by Susan M. Shaw Up on the housetop reindeer pause Out jumps good old Santa Claus Down through the chimney with lots of toys All for the little ones' Yuletide joys Chorus: Ho, ho, ho, who wouldn't go? Ho, ho, ho, who wouldn't go? Up on the housetop, click, click, click Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick First comes the stocking of little Nell Oh, dear Santa, fill it well Give her a dolly that laughs and cries One that can open and shut its eyes Look in the stocking of little Bill Oh, just see that glorius fill! Here is a hammer and lots of tacks Whistle and ball and a set of Jacks ~ Wassail Song Traditional words from Nightpath's Songs and Chants Chorus: Here we come a-wassailing among the leaves so green, Here we come a-wandering so fairly to be seen. Now is winter time and strangers travel far and near, And we wish you, send you a happy New Year. Bud and blossom, bud and blossom, bud and bloom and bear, So we may have plenty of cider all next year. Baskets full and barrels full, and bushels, bags and bowls, And the cider running out of every gutter hole. Chorus Down here in the muddy lane there sits an old grey fox, A-starving and a-shivering, and licking his old chops. Brings us up a table and set it if you please, And give us hungry wassailers a bit of bread and cheese. Chorus I have a little purse and its made of leather skin, A little silver sixpence, it would line it well within. Now is winter time and strangers travel far and near, And we wish you, send you a happy New Year. Chorus ~ We Three Crones Tune: We Three Kings words adapted by Heartsong We three crones of magic-past are, Bearing gifts, we traverse afar, Fields & fountain, moor & mountain, Following each our star. Chorus: Oh, star of wonder, star of might, Star of radiant beauty bright, Inward leading, still proceeding, Guide us with thy magick light. Gold I bring, the Earth's hidden gleam, Guards our Mem'ry, draws forth our dream; Weary-curing, strong enduring, Holding time's circling stream. Chorus Frankincense I carry with me. Incense aids the spirit to see; Analyzing, wize, up-rising, Sense of the Earth, flow free! Chorus Myrrh is mine, it's bitter perfume Lifts new life, a magical broom; Praying, flying, purifying, Away with old lingering gloom. Chorus Glorious gifts of magic (wimmin) we praise, Maiden, Mother, Ancient of Days; Strength, and sense, and energy; whence Return to our sacred ways. Chorus ~ We Three Kings Traditional Carol [Only a slight rewrite of the original] Author Unknown We three kings of Orient are Bearing gifts we traverse afar Field and fountain, moor and mountain Following yonder star Chorus: O star of wonder, star of night Star with royal beauty bright Westward leading, still proceeding Guide us to perfect light Born a king at sunrise so bright Gold I bring to honor the light King forever, ceasing never Light is reborn this night Chorus Frankincense to offer have I Scent of praise for birth that is nigh Joy and praising, all now raising Worship the God most high. Chorus Myrrh is mine, the incense of night Gone is he away from our sight Yet in Sorrow, know tomorrow Surely will bring new light Chorus Glorious now behold him arise King and God and Sacrifice Alleluia, Alleluia Earth to Heaven replies Chorus ~ We Wish You a Merry Solstice Tune: We Wish You A Merry Christmas words adapted by Susan M. Shaw We wish you a merry Solstice We wish you a merry Solstice We wish you a merry Solstice And a happy New Year! Chorus: Good tidings we bring To you and your kin We wish you a merry Solstice! And a happy New Year! Our feasting is not so simple Our feasting is not so simple Our feasting is not so simple On this Hollyday! Chorus We've eggnog and punch and wassail We've eggnog and punch and wassail We've eggnog and punch and wassail And hot chocolate too Chorus We've breads, cakes and Solstice cookies We've breads, cakes and Solstice cookies We've breads, cakes and Solstice cookies Plus crackers and buns Chorus Now bring us some figgy pudding Now bring us some figgy pudding Now bring us some figgy pudding And bring it right now Chorus We won't go until we get some We won't go until we get some We won't go until we get some So bring some right now Chorus ~ What Child Is This? Tune: Greensleeves words adapted by Anie Burke-Webb What child is this, who rises now from His Mother's womb returning Her children greet most joyously the sight of His face's bright burning Chorus: This, this is the Sun child born The radiant one, the light returned Born unto the world again This child, the promise of summer His growing light returns the warmth that darkness stole from out the Earth To bud the leaves, and blossoms bring to signal the Spring's rebirth Chorus ~ What Night is This? Tune: Greensleeves (What Child Is This?) words adapted by Blake TaylorMixon What night is this so calm and cold? We gather round, both young and old, Above the stars are shining bright This is Solstice night. This, this night we sing, The seasons turn and treasures bring, This, this the longest night, We welcome back the light. Now Winter's turn has just begun A time of peace for everyone Restful dark and stories told, The year is growing old. This, this night we sing... ~ Ye Children All of Mother Earth Tune: It Came upon a midnight Clear Author Unknown Ye children all of Mother Earth Join hands and circle around To celebrate the Solstice night When our lost Lord is found Rejoice, the year has begun again The Sun rise above So share the season together now In everlasting love ~ Yule Fires Tune: Greensleeves words adapted by John G. MacKinnon In ancient days the folk of old When chilled with fright by winter's cold Did kindle up a great Yule fire With leaping flames in its great pyre; So to entice the waning sun To rise again and wider run; It's fiery course across the sky, To warm them so they would not die. So we, whose minds now sense a chill Of anger in the evil will, The human conflict, hate, and strife, Which hold a menace over life; Would kindle up a flame of love That we within our hearts may move, In Yuletide joy, with love embrace And thus abide in peace and grace. ================================================== Credits http://plasma.physics.lehigh.edu:8080/afs/Whispering-Trees/yule-songs.html http://www.islandnet.com/~hornowl/library/yulesong.txt YULE SONGS FROM PAGAN DIGEST Thanks to Walking Stick & Uther Locksley (uther@DRYCAS.CLUB.CC.CMU.EDU) Copy & distribute freely, but give credit where credit is due http://www.psnw.com/~galfo/nightpath/yule_carols.html Thanks go to the following people for sharing their beautiful carols with us! Christina Rosetti Laura Deal Raeder Blake TaylorMixon (taylorm@fidalgo.net) Ellen Reed Tina Galfo Hilda Marshall Susan M. Shaw Carusone