The First Noel

Song Origins Original version dates back to 15 th or 16 th century Not written down or published until 1800s William B. Sandys and Davies Gilbert edited and added lyrics in 1823 to create the version we sing today

Song Origins “The First Noel” was not used in church services until the mid 1800s The early church looked down on peasant songs that they felt lacked the solemnity of true hymns

“The First Noel” The carol was sung each year by English peasants as they lit the family Yule log Yule log= a huge log, hollowed out and filled with aromatic oils and spices. Lit on Christmas Even with the hope that it would burn through the 12 days of Christmas ending on January 6

“The First Noel” Portrays in vivid narrative style the birth of Christ All six stanzas are needed to complete the entire event when the hymn is sung The last stanza urges us to join together to sing praises to God Noel= happy birthday

Please join us in singing “The First Noel.”