When the Snow Lies

From the musical The Christmas Carving.

When the snow lies on the churchyard
And the leaves have fled the trees
In that same time, barren winter
Long ago and in the East
Came a star that shone like sunshine
Shone upon a silent plain
Falling softly on a stable
Where the holy baby lay.

On that cold and starry evening
Like no night the world had known
Came the shepherds from the mountains
Telling of the angels' song.
“Alleluia! Alleluia!”
They had heard the angels sing.
Take us to him, take us to him
We have come to see the king.

Though the prophets long foretold Him,
Endless praise His name demand,
Still this humble, low beginning,
He the paupered Son of Man.
In this moment, Grace incarnate,
Full empowered by Our Lord
Still the babe wrapped in the manger
Hearing just his mother's word.

Mother Mary, hold Him closely
Keep the winter breeze at bay.
It surpasses understanding
What the ages all will say.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Let the heavens ring his praise
Come before Him, and adore Him,
Christ, the Ancient King of Days!