A Christmas Gloria (SATB)

John A. Behnke has set the texts from Luke 2 and Isaiah 9 to a festive, bright tune and setting for SATB and organ or piano. This piece features a memorable refrain of “Gloria in excelsis Deo” with contrasting verses that feature triplet rhythms. Perfect for the proclamation of Christ’s birth on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. A setting for two-part and organ or piano is also available.

Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria! Gloria!
Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria! Gloria!
To us a child is born,
to us a son is given.
Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria! Gloria!

God comes to us as a tiny baby,
looking so fragile and helpless to all.
What we don’t see is the God of creation
putting the plan of salvation in place.

Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria! Gloria!
Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria! Gloria!

Look on the beauty that shines in the darkness,
see there the Holy, begotten from time,
the Lamb of God who has come as our Savior.
See in the manger God’s Son born this night.

Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria! Gloria!
Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria! Gloria!

We hear the angels announce His arrival;
we see the shepherds rejoicing this night.
Now spread the Good News to all earth’s people—
the gift of new life is given today.

Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria! Gloria!
Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria! Gloria!
To us a child is born,
to us a son is given.
Gloria in excelsis Deo! Gloria!
Gloria! Gloria! Gloria!