O Come, All Ye Faithful

When the choir strikes up "O Come, All Ye Faithful" on Christmas night, the entire church knows the season of joy has truly arrived. This classic hymn is a staple of the Nativity, calling everyone—from the singers in the loft to the congregation in the pews—to make the spiritual journey to Bethlehem. The words are a direct invitation to behold the newborn King, capturing the awe and triumph of the Incarnation.

This particular score features the famous arrangement by David Willcocks, which has become a beloved tradition in parishes everywhere. The first two verses build a steady, joyful foundation, leading into the thrilling third verse where the sopranos break into a soaring descant on "Sing, choirs of angels." By the time the final verse arrives, with its powerful unison declaration "Yea, Lord, we greet thee," the music swells to a magnificent climax that perfectly expresses the glory of Christmas morning.