(The text and melody are believed to be 18th century French, except for the old Latin chorus "Gloria in Excelsis Deo", which has been used since medieval times. It has often called the Westminster Carol as it was sung every Yuletide at Westminster Chapel. The melody is often borrowed for the hymn Angels from the Realms of Glory by J. Montgomery.)

Angels we have heard on high,
Sweetly singing o'er the plains,
And the mountains in reply,
Echoing their joyous strains.

Glo-ria
In excelsis Deo
Glo-ria
In excelsis Deo

Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous strains prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be
Which inspire your heav'ly song?

Refrain

Come to Bethlehem and see
Him Whose birth the angels sing;
Come, (Some )adore on bended knee,
Christ the Lord, the new-born King.

Refrain

See Him in a manger laid,
Whom the choirs of angels praise;
Mary, Joseph, lend your aid,
While our hearts in love we raise.

Refrain