1. 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: 2. Shepherds, in the field abiding, Watching o'er your flocks by night, God with man is now residing; Yonder shines the infant Light: 3. Sages, leave your contemplations, Brighter visions beam afar; Seek the great Desire of nations, Ye have seen His natal star: 4. Saints, before the altar bending, Watching long in hope and fear, Suddenly the Lord, descending, In His temple shall appear: Chorus: Come and worship, come and worship, Worship Christ, the newborn King.
Lyrics:
James Montgomery
Music:
Henry Thomas Smart
Tune: REGENT SQUARE
Meter: 8.7.8.7.8.7.
James Montgomery, 1771–1854
James Montgomery was known as a deeply devoted, noble person who made an important contribution to English hymnody through his many inspiring texts. At the age of 23 he was appointed editor of the weekly Sheffield Register in London, maintaining this position for the next 31 years. As editor of this paper Montgomery championed many different causes, such as the abolition of slavery. “Angels, From the Realms of Glory” first appeared as a poem in Montgomery’s newspaper on December 24, 1816. Later it was published in a hymnal titled Montgomery’s Original Hymns and was known as “Good Tidings of Great Joy to All People.”