JESOUS AHATONHIA

“TWAS IN THE MOON OF WINTERTIME”

Huron Christmas Hymn

Text by Jean de Brébeuf (1643?)

Music: French Canadian folksong

Translated by Jesse Edgar Middleton (1926)

(Methodist Hymnal, 2000, 244)  

1.        Twas in the moon of wintertime, when all the birds had fled

That mighty Gitchi Manitou sent angel choirs instead

Before their light the stars grew dim, and wondering hunters heard the hymn

             Refain.  

2.       Within a lodge of broken bark the tender babe was found

A ragged robe of rabbit skin enwrapped his beauty round

But as the hunter braves drew nigh, the angel song rang loud and high

Refrain.  

3.       The earliest moon of wintertime is not so round and fair

As was the ring of glory on the helpless infant there.

The chiefs from far before him knelt with gifts of fox and beaver pelt

Refrain.  

4.       O children of the forest free, O seed of Manitou

The holy Child of earth and heaven is born today for you.

Come kneel before the radiant boy who brings you beauty, peace, and joy

Refrain.  

Refrain:  Jesus your king, Jesus is born, in excelsis Gloria!  

 

Queens University of Charlotte  1900 Selwyn Avenue  Charlotte, NC  28274
Modified by:  H.  Kamerling