The Big Pagan, Christmas and Yule Carol Archive
Secular and Pagan Christmas and Yule Carols From Many Sources
The following is a collection of carols from a number of sources. Many of these are revisions of popular carols with Christian references replaced with pagan or, in some cases, Wiccan ones.
Pagan traditions have been vilified relentlessly over the ages by Christians, a practice almost certainly initiated in an effort to justify the genocidal eradication of these cultures by the church. The tradition of burning heretics at the stake and many other atrocities being so horrendous, just about any fiction was invented to explain the church's misdeeds, the most popular being the accusation of satanism. As so aptly been stated: "Orthodoxy cannot afford to put out the fires of Hell." Indeed, a scape-goat is almost always required for propaganda to be truly effective.
Paganism in its many forms deserves compensation and revitalization for the damage it has endured. Presenting this collection is a minor effort in that direction.
 Pagan Santa
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
~
 Jinkle, The Juniper Elf
Angels We Have Heard
Tune: Angels We Have Heard On High
(Gloria)
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.
~
 Santa and Child.
Photo by Jacob Windham
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 fire's 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
[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.
~
 Anders, the Blasphemy Elf
Chanukah/Solstice
Written 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
Words by Robert Wells
adapted by Susan M. Shaw
Music by Mel Torme
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!"
~
 Elf Choir
Christmas Day in the Morning
Tune: I Saw Three Ships
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
~
Anders, the Blasphemy Elf
Christmas Time Is Pagan!
Tune: Gloria in Excelsis Deo
(Angels We Have Heard On High)
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
~
 Elf Delivery
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.
~
Santa and Child.
Photo by Jacob Windham
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.
~
Santa and Child.
Photo by Jacob Windham
Deck the Halls
Traditional
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
~
 Wonderful Things
Dona Nobis Pacem
(Grant Us Peace)
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 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!"
~
 Christmas Market in Dresden
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!"
~
 Jultomte (Sweden) or Nisse (Norway )
-- the scandinavian santas
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
~
 Drukel, The Velvet Santa
Glory to the New Born King
words 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.
~
 Yule Tree
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
~
Wonderful Things
God Rest Ye Merry, Paganfolk
Tune: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
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!
~
Anders, the Blasphemy Elf
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
Chorus:
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.
Chorus
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!
~
 Aloisius, The Belligerent Father Christmas
Gods Rest Ye Merry Paganfolk
Tune: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
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
~
Yule Tree
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.
~
Elf Choir
Good King Wenceslas II
Traditional Carol
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.
~
Wonderful Things
Good Morrow, Happy Paganfolk
Tune: "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"
words 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
~
 Ornament
Good Pagan Folk, Rejoice
Tune: Good Christian Men Rejoice
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
~
Wonderful Things
Hark!
Tune: Hark the Herald Angels Sing
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!
~
Christmas Market in Dresden
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.
~
 Green Man Santa
Hear Diana
To an Original Tune
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)
~
 Danish Candle-lit Yule Tree
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
Music by Gustav Holst
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.
~
Ornament
Jingle Bell Rock
Written 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
Written 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
~
Green Man Santa
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!
~
Wonderful Things
Joy to the World II
Music by Lowell Mason
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.
~
Danish Candle-lit Yule Tree
Joy to the World III
Music by Lowell Mason
Source 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.
~
Wonderful Things
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.
~
Pagan Santa
Joy to the World V
Music by Lowell Mason
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.
~
 German Tannenbaum
Lady Moon Shine Softly
Tune: O little town of Bethlehem
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.
~
 Bertram Santa
Masters in This Hall
Tune: Masters in This Hall
Source 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
~
Bertram Santa
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.
~
Elf Delivery
Moon of Silver I
Tune: We Three Kings
Source 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
~
Wonderful Things
Moon of Silver II
Tune: We Three Kings
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
~
Wonderful Things
Mother Berta's Coming to Town
Tune: Santa Claus Is Coming to Town
Source 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
~
 King Wenceslas
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.
~
Danish Candle-lit Yule Tree
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!
~
Green Man Santa
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.
~
 Edvard, The Morose Tomte
O Holy Night III
Music by Adolphe Adam
Source 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.
~
Aloisius, The Belligerent Father Christmas
O Holy Night IV
Music by Adolphe Adam
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
~
Jinkle, The Juniper Elf
O Tannenbaum I
Traditional
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
~
Ornament
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!
~
Wonderful Things
O Yuletide Tree
Tune: O Tannenbaum
Source 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
~
Jinkle, The Juniper Elf
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!
~
Jinkle, The Juniper Elf
One More Christmas Tree
Tune: O Tannenbaum
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!
~
 Candle
Our Lady Greensleeves I
Tune: Greensleeves
(What Child Is This)
Source 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.
~
Elf Delivery
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
~
Drukel, The Velvet Santa
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.
~
Bertram Santa
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
~
Bertram Santa
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!
~
Yule Tree
Silent Night II
Traditional Carol
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.
~
Green Man Santa
Silver and Gold
Words and Music by Johnny Marks
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
~
Pagan Santa
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
~
Bertram Santa
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.
~
Wonderful Things
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
~
Drukel, The Velvet Santa
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
~
Elf Choir
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
~
Edvard, The Morose Tomte
The Holly and the Ivy III
Tune: Traditional Carol
Source 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
~
Green Man Santa
The Holly and the Ivy IV
Tune: Traditional Carol
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
~
Pagan Santa
The Holly and the Ivy V
Tune: Traditional Carol
words 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
~
Christmas Market in Dresden
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
~
Anders, the Blasphemy Elf
The Holly and the Ivy VII
Traditional Carol
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
~
Edvard, The Morose Tomte
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.
~
Wonderful Things
The Solstice Child
Tune: Greensleeves
(What Child is This?)
words adapted by 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
~
Bertram Santa
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
~
German Tannenbaum
Triple Solstice Goddess
Tune: We Three Kings
Music by John H. Hopkins
words adapted 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
~
 Gerrald, The Candy Cane Elf
Up On the Housetop
Traditional
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
~
 Philleas, The Conundrum Elf
Wassail Song
Traditional
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
~
Christmas Market in Dresden
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
~
Christmas Market in Dresden
We Three Kings
Traditional Carol
[Only a slight rewrite of the original]
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
~
 Ornament
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
~
Edvard, The Morose Tomte
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
~
Yule Tree
What Night is This?
Tune: What Child Is This?
(Greensleeves)
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.
Chorus:
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.
Chorus
~
Wonderful Things
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 Tree
Yule Fires
Tune: Greensleeves
(What Child Is This?)
words 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
Peter Soderberg
(Circle Network News, Winter 1981)
Thanks go to the following people
Christina Rosetti
Laura Deal Raeder
Blake TaylorMixon (taylorm@fidalgo.net)
Ellen Reed
Tina Galfo
Hilda Marshall
Susan M. Shaw
Carusone
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