What Child Is This
music by bob padgett
words by William Chatterton Dix, ca. 1865
(adapted by bob padgett)
Novemeber, 2007—Stony Brook, NY
©2007 clamchop creative studio
(lyrics public domain)

for The Service of Lessons and Carols at The Stony Brook School,
December 9, 2007



What Child is this who, laid to rest
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom Angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
   This, this is Christ the King,
   Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing;
   This, this is Christ the King,
   The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Why lies He in such mean estate,
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear, for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
   This, this is Christ the King,
   Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing;
   This, this is Christ the King,
   The Babe, the Son of Mary.

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,
Come peasant, king to own Him;
The King of Kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
   This, this is Christ the King,
   Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing;
   This, this is Christ the King,
   The Babe, the Son of Mary.

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