The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came
This carol is also called "Gabriel's Message". It's a Basque Christmas carol called "Birjina gaztettobat zegoen" about the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary. It was translated to English by Sabine Baring-Gould and is best known for that version.
The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came
Christmas Carol
The angel Gabriel from heaven came,
His wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame;
"All hail," said he, "thou lowly maiden Mary.
Most highly favoured lady. Gloria!"
"For known a bless-ed mother thou shalt be,
All generations laud and honour thee,
Thy son shall be Emmanuel by seers foretold;
Most highly favoured lady. Gloria!"
Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head;
"To me be as it pleaseth God," she said.
"My soul shall laud and magnify his holy name."
Most highly favoured lady. Gloria!
Of her Emmanuel, the Christ, was born
In Bethlehem, all on a Christmas morn;
And Christian folk throughout the world will ever say:
"Most highly favoured lady." Gloria!
Notes
Words by Sabine Baring-Gould (1834 – 1924)
Tune: Traditional Basque Carol
