Tuesday, December 07, 2004

'Twas In The Moon of Winter Time
(The Huron Carole)


'Twas in the moon of winter time,
when all the birds had fled,
that mighty Gitchi-Manitou sent angel choirs instead;
before their light the stars grew dim,
and wondering hunters heard the hymn:
Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born,
in excelcis gloria.

Within a lodge of broken bark the tender babe was found,
a ragged robe of rabbit skin enwrapped his beauty round;
but as the hunter braves drew nigh,
the angel song rang loud and high:
Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born,
in excelcis gloria.

O children of the forest free,
O sons of Manitou,
the holy child of earth and heaven is born today for you.
Come, kneel before the radiant boy,
who brings you beauty, peace and joy:
Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born,
in excelcis gloria.

Before their light the stars grew dim,
and wondering hunters heard the hymn:

Within a lodge of broken bark the tender babe was found,
a ragged robe of rabbit skin enwrapped his beauty round
Come, kneel before the radiant boy,
who brings you beauty, peace and joy:
Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born,
in excelcis gloria.

---------

Meant as a tool for teaching the Huron people, this was Canada's first Christmas Carol. It was written in 1643 by Father Saint Jean de Brebeuf, who died six years later at the age of 54. It was originally written in the Huron language. There was first a French Translation, and later, English. Although the words do not match up, the spirit and meaning of the song has essentially survived.

For the past 16 years, Tom Jackson (actor, musician) has organized a travelling show called "The Huron Carole" across Canada, raising money for charitable organisations, primarily the Food Bank.

While the show has already about run it's course there are a couple stops left. So if you get the chance to see it, please take it! Not only will you enjoy a wonderful evening of beautiful performances, but you will be helping out those who need it most this cold wintry season. That should be enough to warm us all up.

Here are a couple links for you:


The Huron Carole
Alberta Food Bank Network Association

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