Angels from the Realms of Glory

The tune for this popular Christmas song comes from the 18th-century French carol “Les Anges dans nos Campagnes.” In English this carol is usually known as “Angels We Have Heard on High,” though in 1816 the British poet James Montgomery published this alternate version of the lyrics. The final verse, “Though an infant now we view Him,” comes from another of Montgomery’s hymn texts, “The Babe of Bethlehem,” penned in 1825. In Mack Wilberg’s stirring arrangement, this carol has become the signature finale at The Tabernacle Choir’s annual Christmas concerts.

Music: French carol
Text: James Montgom
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg

Listen to the Full Song

Lyrics

Angels from the realms of glory,
Wing your flight o’er all the earth;
Ye who sang Creation’s story
Now proclaim Messiah’s birth!

Gloria, in excelsis Deo,
Gloria, in excelsis Deo.

Shepherds, in the field abiding,
Watching o’er your flocks by night;
God with man is now residing,
Yonder shines the Infant Light.

Sages leave your contemplations:
Brighter visions beam a-far.
Seek the Great Desire of Nations:
Ye have seen His natal star.

Saints, before the altar bending,
Watching long in hope and fear:
Suddenly the Lord descending,
In His temple shall appear.

Though an Infant now we view Him,
He shall fill His Father’s throne.
Gather all the nations to Him;
Ev’ry knee shall then bow down.