| Yule
Songs |
| ALL THE YULE SEASONAL SONGS
THAT I COULD FIND A HOLLY JOLLY YULETIDE ASA-THOR IS COMIN TO TOWN AVE MARIA BEE FISH EWE A MARE EGRETS MOOSE BRING A TORCH BROTHERS. SISTERS, COME AND SING CAROL OF THE BELLS CHANUKAH/SOLSTICE CHESTNUTS ROASING ON AN OPEN FIRE CHRISTMAS TIME IS PAGAN! DANCING IN A WICCAN WONDERLAND DECK THE HALLS DONA NOBIS PACEM FAUNUS THE ROMAN GOAT-GOD FROSTY THE SNOWMAN GLORIA GLORY TO THE NEW BORN KING GODS BLESS YE MERRY PAGANFOLK GOD REST YE FOLK OF ASATRU GOD REST YE MERRY PAGANFOLK GOD REST YE MERRY PAGANFOLK!! GODDESS KEEP YE, MERRY FRIENDS GODDESS REST YE MERRY PAGANS GOOD KING WENCESLAS I GOOD KING WENCESLAS II GOOD PAGAN FOLK REJOICE HARK THE NEO-PAGANS SING HARK! THE HERALDS LOUDLY SING HARK! THE HARRIED MOTHERS SING HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE YULETIDE HERE WE COME A-WASSAILING HOLLY KING IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK LIKE YULETIDE JINGLE BELL ROCK JINGLE BELLS JINGLE BELLSII JOY TO THE WORLD I JOY TO THE WORLD II JOY TO THE WORLD III JOY TO THE WORLD IV JOY TO THE WORLDV LADY MOON SHINES SOFTLY DOWN LET IT SNOW! LIGHT IS RETURNING MAY THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN MOON OF SILVER I MOON OF SILVER II MOTHER BERTA’S COING TO TOWN MY FAVORITE THINGS O TANNEBAUM I O TANNENBAUM II OH, COME ALL YE FAITHFUL OH HOLY NIGHT I OH HOLY NIGHT II OH HOLY NIGHT III ONE MORE CHRISTMAS TREE OUR LADY GREENSLEEVES OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS SHARE THE LIGHT SILENT NIGHT SILVER AND GOLD SILVER BELLS SLEIGH RIDE THE FIRST NOEL THE HOLLY AND THE IVY I THE HOLLY AND THE IVY II THE HOLLY AND THE IVY III THE HOLLY AND THE IVY IV THE INFINITE SUN THE SOLSTICE CHILD THE THIRTEEN DAYS OF SOLSTICE THE TWELVE DAYS OF YULETIDE TOYLAND TRIPLE SOLSTICE GODDESS UP ON THE HOUSETOP WE, THE QUEENS OF HEAVEN AND EARTH WE THREE CRONES WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS WE WISH YOU A MERRY SOLSTICE WHAT CHILD IS THIS? WINTER WONDERLAND YE CHILDREN ALL OF MOTHER EARTH YULE FIRES AULD LANG SYNE WASSAIL SONGS AND RECIPES ASTROLOGY SEASONAL SONGS A HOLLY JOLLY YULETIDE Words and Music by Johnny Marks Adapted by Susan M. Shaw Have a holly jolly Yuletide It's the best time of the year I don't know if there'll be snow But have a cup of cheer Have a holly jolly Yuletide And when you walk down the street Say hello to friends you know And ev'ryone you meet Oh, ho, the mistletoe Hung where you can see Somebody waits for you Kiss her once for me Have a holly jolly Yuletide and in case you didn't hear Oh, by golly have a holly jolly Yuletide This year! ASA-THOR IS COMIN TO TOWN By: Alice Rhoades Tune: Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town Oh you better watch out, you better not cry You better not pout, I'm tellin' you why: Asa-Thor is comin' to town He's wearin' his gloves, he's totin' his belt The fire in his eyes would make a rock melt Asa-Thor is comin' to town He guards you when you're sleepin' But once you are awake Old Red-Beard leaves you on your own And you get just what you make! So you better not moan, you better not whine He'll rattle your bones and shake up your spine Asa-Thor is comin' to town! AVE MARIA Maiden of beauty, hear us as we call to thee, Come forth and take thy place as Mother, Reborn the child of light must be. Queen of night, O lady of wisdom we call Weave thy magick tonight. Here we stand and humbly wait to serve thee Come within and fill our souls with love As thy sphere of stars is slowly turning Bring us new light, the light of your glorious sun. Ave Maria BEE FISH EWE A MARE EGRETS MOOSE Tune: We Wish You a Merry Christmas, words by Walking Stick Bee fish ewe a mare egrets moose, Bee fish ewe a mare egrets moose, Bee fish ewe a mare egrets moose, Panda Hippo Gnu Deer! BRING A TORCH Bring a torch, O brothers and sister Bring a torch, light Yule fires bright. We gather this night to wait for the dawning Come quickly, I see the first rays of light Ah, how radiant the Mother Ah, Ah How brightly shines the Sun. Sing in praise of our gracious Lady Sing in praise of our glorious Sun The wheel has turned Tis time for the new year Dance gaily, we shall welcome the Sun Ah, Ah, How radiant the Mother Ah, Ah, How brightly shines the Sun. BROTHERS, SISTERS, COME AND SING Brothers, sisters, come and sing Glory to the reborn king Gardens peaceful, forests wild Celebrate the winter child Now the time of growing starts Joyful hands and joyful hearts Cheer the Yule log as it burns For once again the Sun returns Brothers, sisters, come and sing, Glory to the reborn King. Dance the circle round and round Let the songs of joy resound. Build the Temple, glowing bright Where we meet and grow in light. Share your love with those around you Long may Yuletide peace surround you Hail the flame that has no end Pass a kiss from friend to friend Dance the circle, spirits sour Dance in light forever more. Light the candle, trim the tree Start the feast and revelry Light the Yule log, watch it blaze Greet the Gods with love and praise. Bless the wine with blade and chalice Drink that peace may conquer malice. Toast the Lady, toast the Lord. Toast to light and life restored. Dance the circle, warm your heart Merry meet and Merry part. Brothers, sisters, sing come Glory to the newborn sun. Through the wind and dark of night Celebrate the coming light. Suns glad rays through fear’s cold burns Life through death the wheel now turns Gather round Yule log and tree Celebrate life’s mystery Brothers, sisters, singing come Glory to the new-born Sun. CAROL OF THE BELLS Words by Hilda Marshall Traditional Ukrainian Carol Hark! How the bells, sweet silver bells All seem to say, "Throw cares away." Yuletide is here, bringing good cheer To young and old, meek and the bold Ding, dong, ding, dong, that is their song, With joyful ring, all caroling One seems to hear words of good cheer From everywhere, filling the air O, how they pound, raising the sound O'er hill and dale, telling their tale Gaily they ring, while people sing Songs of good cheer, Yuletide is here! Merry, merry, merry, merry Yuletide! Merry, merry, merry, merry Yuletide! On, on they send, on without end Their joyful tone to every home Hark! How the bells, sweet silver bells All seem to say, "Throw cares away." Yuletide is here, bringing good cheer To young and old, meek and the bold Ding, dong, ding, dong, that is their song With joyful ring, all caroling. One seems to hear words of good cheer From everywhere, filling the air O, how they pound, raising the sound O'er hill and dale, telling their tale Gaily they ring, while people sing Songs of good cheer, Yuletide is here! Merry, merry, merry, merry Yuletide! Merry, merry, merry, merry Yuletide! On, on they send, on without end Their joyful tone to every home. CHANUKAH/SOLSTICE Written by Linda HirschhornRecorded on 'Gather Round: Songs of Celebration And Renewal' Turning turning spirits yearning Reaching for the night Colors going, shadows growing Darkening the night Ancient story told, renewed with the cold Mystery of light, burnt into the night CHESTNUTS ROASING ON AN OPEN FIRE Words by Robert Wells, adapted by Susan M. Shaw Music by Mel Torme Chestnuts Roasting on an open fire Jack Frost nipping at your nose Yuletide carols being sung by a choir And folks dressed up like Eskimos Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe Help to make the season bright Tiny tots with their eyes all a glow Will find it hard to sleep tonight They know that Santa's on his way He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh And ev'ry mother's child is gonna spy To see if reindeer really know how to fly And so I'm offering this simple phrase To kids from one to ninety-two Although it's been said many times, many ways "Merry Yuletide to you!" CHRISTMAS TIME IS PAGAN! Tune: Gloria in Excelsius Deo Christmas time is here again, Decorations everywhere. Christmas carols ringing out, Gentle pagans, we don't care. Chorus: Glorious! Christmas time is pagan! Glorious! Christmas time is pagan! Modern folks all celebrate What they learned in Sunday School. In December, they don't know They are celebrating Yule! Chorus Let them have their Christmas trees, Decked in red and green and blue. We rejoice at every one! Christmas trees are pagan, too. Chorus Bowls of bubbly Christmas cheer, Fill your cup and quench your thirst. They think the tradition's theirs. Wassail bowls were pagan, first. Chorus Every door and window bears Wreaths of holly, wreaths of pine. Circles represent the Sun. Every wreath is yours and mine. Chorus Christmas lights on Christmas trees, Candle flames burn higher and higher, Let us cheer along, my friends, As they light their Yuletide fire. Chorus There's a possibility That this song is yours and mine 'Cause the tune was known to all Back in A.D. one-two-nine. Chorus DANCING IN A WICCAN WONDERLAND "Alexander & Aarcher" Pagans sing, are you listenin', Altar's set,candles glisten, It's a Magickal night, we're having tonight, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland Chorus: In a Circle we can light a Yule Fire, And await the rising of the Sun, It's the Great Wheel turning for the new year, Loaded with abundance and great fun. Blades held high, censer smoking, God and Goddess, we're invoking, Through Elements Five, we celebrate life, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland, Queen of Heaven, is in Her place, Triple Goddess, now the Crone Face, Above and Below, She's the Goddess we know, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland Chorus Now the God, is the Provider, Supplying game for our Fire, Above and Below, He's the Horned One we Know, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland Later on, by the fire, Cone of Power, gettin' higher It's a Magickal Night we're having tonight, Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland DECK THE HALLS Traditional Deck the halls with boughs of holly Fa la la la la la la la la Tis the season to be jolly Fa la la la la la la la la Don we now our gay apparel Fa la la la la la la la la Troll the ancient Yuletide carols Fa la la la la la la la la See the blazing Yule before us Fa la la la la la la la la Strike the harp and join the chorus Fa la la la la la la la la Follow me in merry measure Fa la la la la la la la la While I tell of Yuletide treasure Fa la la la la la la la la Fast away the old year passes Fa la la la la la la la la Hail the new, ye lads and lasses Fa la la la la la la la la Sing we joyous all together Fa la la la la la la la la Heedless of the wind and weather Fa la la la la la la la la Extra verses: Deck the Halls with bought of Holly Fa la la la la la la la la Tis the season to be Jolly Fa la la la la la la la la Join with us in dancing lightly Fa la la la la la la la la As the sun shall lead us brightly Fa la la la la la la la la. Weave the Holly and the Ivy, Fa la la la la la la la la God and Goddess dancing lightly Fa la la la la la la la la Sing we joyous all together, Fa la la la la la la la la Fear we neither wind or weather Fa la la la la la la la la. FAUNUS THE ROMAN GOAT-GOD (to the tune of Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer) Faunus the Roman goat-god Had a very rigid pr*ck And if you ever saw it You would say it's quite a trick All of the other deities Used to leer suggestively They always wanted Faunus To join in the revelry Then one frosty Saturnal Juno made this call "Faunus since you're hung so well, Won't you ring my Solstice bell?" Then all the others pouted And they muttered jealously "FAunus the Roman goat-god Better save a turn for me!" FROSTY THE SNOWMAN Words and Music by Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins Frosty the Snowman was a jolly happy soul With a corncob pipe and a button nose And two eyes made out of coal Frosty the Snowman was a fairy tale, they say He was made of snow, but the children know How he came to life one day There must have been some magic In that old top hat they found For when they placed it on his head He began to dance around! Frosty the Snowman was alive as he could be And the children say he could laugh and play Just the same as you and me He led them down the streets of town Right to the traffic cop And he only paused a moment when He heard her holler, "Stop!" Frosty the Snowman had to hurry on his way But he said goodbye, saying Don't you cry, I'll be back again some day!" GLORIA Ellen Reed Snow lies deep upon the Earth Still our voices warmly sing Heralding the glorious birth Of the Child, the Winter King Chorus: Glo -- ria! In excelsis Deo! Glo -- ria! In excelsis Dea! Our triumphant voices claim Joy and hope and love renewed And our Lady's glad refrain Answer Winter's solitude Chorus In Her arms a holy Child Promises a glowing Light Through the winter wind so wild He proclaims the growing Light. Chorus Now the turning of the year Of the greater Turning sings Passing age of cold and fear Soon our golden summer brings. Chorus GLORY TO THE NEW BORN KING Ellen Reed (1st verse) Brothers, sisters, come to sing Glory to the new-born King! Gardens peaceful, forests wild Celebrate the Winter Child! Now the time of glowing starts! Joyful hands and joyful hearts! Cheer the Yule log as it burns! For once again the Sun returns! Brothers, sisters, come and sing! Glory to the new-born King! Brothers, sisters, singing come Glory to the newborn Sun Through the wind and dark of night Celebrate the coming light. Suns glad rays through fear's cold burns Life through death the Wheel now turns Gather round the Yule log and tree Brothers, sisters, singing come Glory to the new-born Sun. GODS BLESS YE MERRY PAGANFOLK Words by Anie Burke-Webb Gods bless ye merry, Paganfolk Let nothing you afright There's naught but peace will touch us here On this the longest night For our Great Mother will give birth And turn the dark to light Chorus: And the Wheel's turning round and round Round and round. And the Wheel's turning round and round. Into the west's fast dimming light The Dark God must retreat As all of life must come at last To death the longest sleep But our Great Mother then gives birth The circle is complete At morning's first bright ray of light Arrives the Sun Child's birth Returning through the Mother's womb Life promised to the Earth Now that our Mother's labor's done Rejoice with song and mirth GOD REST YE FOLK OF ASATRU / THE GODDESS BLESS THEE COVENFOLK Tune: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen God rest ye folk of Asatru, let nothing you dismay Just call on Thor and He will come to send His strength our way And save us from the Christian curse that led us all astray Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! Remember how we blessed the Boar and gave the Gods our song? Remember how we lit the torch to speed the Sun along? Remember when our minds were free and our thoughts were strong? Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! They hid from us our Father's Eye, and made Him deaf and blind The Lady's necklace shattered, as a nun she was confined Men no more sought the future; men no longer looked behind Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! The Goddess bless thee, covenfolk, let nothing you dismay For, lo, the Sun is born again upon this Yuletide Day Delivering us from the dark, and leading to the May Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! The power of the Pentagram is old, yet ever new The Goddess doth three faces have, the Lord is three faced too And three faced is the Holy Fool; a MysteÕry waits for you Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! The dancers of the Holy Year are eight, both great and small The circles three, the quarters four, watchtowers standing tall Be joyful for the secret is: the Goddess rules them all! Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! Within the blessed Apple lies the Message of the Queen For from this pentacle shall rise the orchards fresh and green The Earth shall blossom once again, the air be clear and clean! Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! Ye Sisters of the Sacred Moon, ye Sun-Lords of the Day Remember when the Blessing comes, it alters every Way Encircling then the world of men, and leading to the May! Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! So merry meet, ye covenfolk. in forest, field or hall And hold your freedom close to hand, no more to be enthralled The God and Goddess love ye, every single one and all! Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! The time is past when we need bow to words laid down by men Tear down the walls that bar our way, and once more seek the glen The Tree they turned into a Cross is growing green again! Oh tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy! Oh tidings of comfort and joy! GOD REST YE MERRY PAGANFOLKII (From the Wiccan Yule Songs of Balefire Coven- verses 2,3, &5) God rest ye merry, paganfolk, Let nothing you dismay. Remember that the Sun returns Upon this Solstice day. The growing dark is ending now And Spring is on its way. Chorus: Oh, tidings of comfort and joy, Comfort and joy! Oh, tidings of comfort and joy. God rest ye merry, paganfolk, Let nothing you dismay. The Sun, our life is born again It rises Solstice Day. To save us all from Winter’s power, When green has gone away. Chorus: Tho’ Winter’s worst lies still ahead, Fierce tempests, snow and rain. Beneath the blanket on the ground The spark of life remains. The Sun’s warm rays caress these seeds To raise Life’s song again. Chorus: The Goddess rest ye merry, too, And keep you safe from harm. Remember that we live within The circle of Her arms, And may Her love give years to come A very special charm. Chorus: Within the blessed apple lies The promise of the Queen. For from this pentacle shall rise The orchards, fresh and green. The earth shall blossom once again The air be clear and clean Chorus: GODDESS KEEP YE, MERRY FRIENDS Goddess keep ye, merry friends, Let nothing you dismay. Returns today the glorious sun. And He shall light our way. And guide us now to peace and love, For all the Mother’s world. O Tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. Goddess keep ye, merry friends, And guide you with her love, The sun, her child returns today, And lights us from above. And shows again the beauty, That all about us glows, O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy. GODDESS REST YE MERRY PAGANS Oregon Pagan Council Goddess rest ye merry pagans Let nothing you dismay Remember that the Sun's reborn Upon this Solstice Day Though far away the summer seems It's all begun today Chorus: O tidings of comfort and joy Comfort and joy O tidings of comfort and joy Oh, Pagans gather in a ring, And dance by fire light And Yuletide Carols singing We feast into the night On Solstice Morn the Sun's Reborn Of Goddess's Great Rite Chorus: GOOD KING WENCESLAS I Words from the Wiccan Yule Songs of Balefire Coven Good King Wenceslas looked out On the Feast of Yule When the snow lay round about Deep in Winter's rule Brightly shone the Moon that night Though the frost was cruel When a poor roe came in sight Seeking winter fuel "Hither, page, and stand by me If thou know'st it, telling yonder stag, O whose is he? Where and how his dwelling?" "Sire, he lives a good league hence Underneath the mountain Right against the forest fence By good Brighit's fountain." "Bring me apples; bring me corn Bring my warm clothes hither He shall dine `fore Solstice morn When we bring them thither." Page and monarch, forth they went Forth they went together through the rude wind's wild lament And the bitter weather "Page, the night is darker now And the wind blows stronger Fails my heart, I know not how I can go no longer." "Mark my footsteps, my good King Tread thou in them boldly Thou shalt find fierce Winter's sting Freeze thy blood less coldly." In the Oak King's steps he trod Where the snow lay dinted Heat was in the very sod Which the God had printed. Therefore, Paganfolk, be sure Any rank possessing Ye who now will bless the Earth Shall, yourselves, find blessing. GOOD KING WENCESLAS II Traditional Carol Good King Wenceslas looked out On the Feast of Stephen When the snow lay round about Deep and crisp and even Brightly shone the moon that night Though the frost was cruel When a poor man came in sight Gathering winter fuel "Hither page and stand by me If thou know'st it, telling Yonder peasant, who is he Where and what his dwelling?" "Sire, he lives a good league hence Underneath the mountain Right against the forest fence By Saint Agnes' fountain" "Bring me flesh and bring me wine Bring me pine logs hither Thou and I will see him dine When we bear them thither." Page and monarch forth they went Forth they went together Through the rude wind's wild lament And the bitter weather "Sire, the night is darker now And the wind blows stronger Fails my heart, I know not how I can go no longer" "Mark my footsteps, my good page Tread thou in them boldly Thou shalt find the winter's rage Freeze thy blood less coldly" Though the fire burned golden bright On the palace fender Twice as warm love's faithful light True and strong and tender Therefore people everywhere Wealth or rank possessing You who now will bless the poor Shall yourselves find blessing. GOOD PAGAN FOLK REJOICE Good Pagan folk, rejoice With heart and soul and voice. Give ye heed to what we say, News, news, Our Lord the Sun is born today Greet him as the dawns first light Bids farewell to dark of night. The Sun returns today, The Sun returns today. Good Pagan folk, rejoice With heart and soul and voice. Gather round the Yuletide tree Peace, Peace. Hope he brings for you and me. Winters cold is nearly gone. We wait for spring with joyous song. Our Lord returns to Earth. Our Lord returns to Earth. Good Pagan folk, rejoice With heart and soul and voice. Praise our Lady, praise her Son. Joy, Joy. New life they bring for everyone. Dance and sing and Merry Meet. The Sun returns today, The sun returns today. HARK! THE HERALDS LOUDLY SING Oregon Pagan Council Hark! The heralds loudly sing Now in three months we will have Spring Green on Earth and weather mild Dark and Light are reconciled Joyful all ye acorns rise Send your leaves up to the skies With the Ancient Oaks proclaim Sun is coming back again! Hark! The heralds loudly sing Now in three months we will have spring HARK THE NEO-PAGANS SING "Sunblade" Tune: "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" Hark the neo-Pagans sing, Glory to the Holly King! Peace on Earth and mercy mild, God and Goddess reconciled, Hear us now as we proclaim, We have risen from the flames, Our ancient Craft now we reclaim, In the God and Goddess' names Hark the neo-Pagans sing, Glory to the Holly King! Herne by highest love adored, Herne the ever-reborn Lord, At all times behold Him come, Offspring of the Holy One, Veiled in flesh, the Godhead see, Hail Incarnate Deity! Our ancient Craft now we reclaim, in the God and Goddess' names Hark the neo-Pagans sing, Glory to the Holly King! HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE YULETIDE Words by Hilda Marshall Tune: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane Have yourself a merry little Yuletide Let your heart be light From now on our troubles will be out of sight Have yourself a merry little Yuletide Make the Sabbat gay From now on our troubles will be miles away Chorus: Here we are as in olden days Happy golden days of yore Faithful friends who are dear to us Gather near to us once more Through the years we all will be together If the Fates allow Hang a shining star upon the highest bough And have yourself a merry little Yuletide now HERE WE COME A-WASSAILING Chorus by Hilda Marshall Traditional Carol Here we come a wassailing Among the leaves so green Here we come a-wandering So fair to be seen Chorus: Love and joy come to you Peace and hope and friendship too And we bless you and wish you a happy new year And we wish you a happy new year! We are not daily beggars who Beg from door to door But we are neighbors' children Whom you have seen before We have got a little purse Of stretching leather skin We want a little money To line it well within Call up the butler of this house Put on his golden ring Let him bring us a glass of beer And better we shall sing Bring us out a table and spread it with a cloth Bring us out a moldy cheese And some of your Yuletide loaf God bless the master of the house The mistress bless also And all the little children Around the table go Good master and good mistress While you sit by the fire Pray think of us poor children A-wand'ring in the mire HOLLY KING Sing we of a mystery, now as long ago Blood red holly berries, blood upon on the snow The Oak king shall rise, the waxing year to bring Therefore did we farewell to the Holly king Now in deep midwinter all seems in a trance Comes the golden Oak King in his age old dance Comes he to slay, yet honor he does he bring To his fallen brother the darksome Holly King In the bright midsummer the year's wheel turned around Then shall be the Oak King's blood upon the ground Ever it comes, once more the years waning Then shall be victorious the Darksome Holly King Sing we of the Mystery now as long ago Blood red holly berries, blood upon on the snow The Oak king shall rise waxing year to bring Therefore did we farewell to the Holly king IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK LIKE YULETIDE Music by Meredith Wilson Words adapted by Susan M. Shaw It's beginning to look a lot like Yuletide Everywhere you go Take a look at the forest glen Glistening once again With snow capped trees and silver moon aglow It's beginning to look a lot like Yuletide Joys our hearts will store But the prettiest sight to see Is the holly that will be On your own front door A pair of antlers to wear and a Yule tree to share Is the wish of Barney and Ben A magickal time when the spells will all rhyme Is the hope of Janice and Jen You and I can hardly wait for the Sun to rise again It's beginning to look a lot like Yuletide Ev'rywhere you go There's a tree for the Coven fest Two for the Grove and Nest The sturdy kind that doesn't mind the snow It's beginning to look a lot like Yuletide Soon the bells will start And the thing that will make them ring Is the carol that you sing Right within your heart JINGLE BELL ROCK Written by Joe Beal and Jim Boothe Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring Snowin' and blowin' are bushels of fun Now the jingle rock has begun Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time Dancin' and prancin' in Jingle Bell Square In the frosty air What a bright time, it's the right time To rock the night away Jingle bell time is a swell time To go ridin' in a one-horse sleigh Giddy up, jingle horse, pick up your feet Jingle around the clock Mix and mingle in a jingle bell beat That's the Jingle Bell Rock! JINGLE BELLS Written by John Pierpont Dashing through the snow In a one-horse open sleigh O'er the fields we go Laughing all the way Bells on bob-tails ring Making spirits bright What fun it is to ride and sing A sleighing song tonight! Chorus: Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way Oh, what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh! Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way Oh, what fun it is to ride In a one-horse open sleigh! A day or two ago I thought I'd take a ride Soon Miss Fanny Bright Was seated at my side The horse was lean and lank Misfortune seem'd his lot He got into a drifed bank And we, we got upsot! Now the ground is white Go it while you're young Take the girls tonight And sing this sleighing song Just get a bob-tailed bay Two-forty for his speed Then hitch him to an open sleigh And crack! You'll take the lead JINGLE BELLSII Dancing in the Light, To celebrate this day, Our troubles cast aside, For this is solstice day. Drums and bells ring out With songs and chants of joy, What fun it is to sing our song, Of Solstice Love and Joy. Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the day. What fun it is to dance and sing Upon this Solstice day. Our voices now we raise, And sing this song of cheer, And celebrate this date, The sun does re-appear. His light shall now grow strong, And brighter grows the day, The wheel does turn until next year We once more sing this song. Chorus: JOY TO THE WORLD I Words by Lunaea Wetherstone Music by Lowell Mason Joy to the World! The Sun returns! Let all who live rejoice! Let every heart receive the healing light And every voice be heard And every voice be heard And every voice in song be heard! JOY TO THE WORLD II Music by Lowell Mason Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Let Earth receive her king! Let every heart prepare him room And Heaven and Nature sing And Heaven and Nature sing And Heaven and Heaven and Nature sing Welcome our King who brings us life Our Lady gives him birth! His living light returneth to warm the seeds within us And wake the sleeping earth And wake the sleeping earth And wake and wake the sleeping earth Light we the fires to greet our Lord, Our Light! Our Life! Our King! Let every voice be lifted to sing his holy praises As Heaven and Nature sing As Heaven and Nature sing As Heaven as Heaven and Nature sing Joy to the Earth! The Light returns! And sunlight fills the air The tide has turned, the Sun has been reborn. And hope is everywhere And hope is everywhere And hope, and hope, is everywhere. Dark ruled the Earth, and death has reined But on the Wheel does spin From out the womb of night, is birthed the Infant Light. The Sun has come again The Sun has come again The Sun, the Sun, has come again. Mother of all, to You we sing! In praise this glorious morn. For Earth and Sky, fire, water, and life. In You we are reborn, in You we are reborn, in You, in You, we are reborn JOY TO THE WORLD III Women of the World, our time has come! Behold, the time is now! We're sick of lesbophobia, fed up with sexist violence reliious prejudice, too, whether muslin, zen, or jew We're sick of, We're sick of, The patriarchal stew. JOY TO THE WORLD IV Joy to the world! The Lady walks, O let the echoes ring! The power of Her love each single heart unlocks, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven and nature sing, And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing. Joy to the world! For peace shall reign As we, our (wimmin) pow'r employ! O, field & flood, rock, hill, & plain, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy. We share the world with truth & grace, & let our blessings prove The glories of our carefulness, And wonders of our love, And wonders of our love, And wonders, wonders, of our love. JOY TO THE WORLD V Joy to the world, the Sun returns, And earth and sky rejoice. And field and town, woodland and stream. Reflect the wondrous Light, Reflect the wondrous Light, Reflect, reflect the wondrous Light. Joy to the world, the Light reborn, Shall bring us joy and peace. And fill our hearts with love and joy. Let all the world rejoice, Let all the world rejoice, Rejoice, Rejoice, in the Light. JOY TO THE WORLD VI Joy to the world, the light has come, Let Earth receive her Lord. Let every heart prepare Him room And Heaven and Nature sing And Heaven and Nature sing, And Heaven and Heaven and nature sing. Welcome our Lord who brings us Light Our Lady gives him birth His living light, to warm our hearts, And wake the sleeping earth and wake the sleeping earth, And wake and wake the sleeping earth. Light we the fires to greet our Lord Our light, our life, our Lord. Let every voice sing Holy praise, And Heaven and Nature sing, And Heaven and Nature sing, And Heaven and Heaven and Nature sing. LADY MOON SHINES SOFTLY DOWN Lady moon shines softly down To light the Earth below As we, her children, gather here Around the Yule fire’s glow. We wait for mornings dawning First light of Holy birth Our Lady turns the wheel of life Her son returns to Earth. With joy we’ll greet his dawning A new year has begun With increase light is bright new hop Reborn in everyone. LET IT SNOW! Words by Sammy Cahn Music by Jule Styne Oh, the weather outside is frightful But the fire is so delightful And since we've no place to go Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow It doesn't show signs of stopping And I brought some corn for popping The lights are turned way down low Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow When we finally kiss goodnight How I'll hate going out in the storm But if you really hold me tight All the way home I'll be warm The fire is slowly dying And my dear we're still good-byeing But as long as you love me so Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! LIGHT IS RETURNING Written by Charlie Murphy One planet is turning Circle on Her path around the Sun Earth Mother is calling Her children home Light is returning Even though this is the darkest hour No one can hold back the dawn Let's keep it burning Let's keep the light of hope alive Make safe our journey through the storm MAY THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN Words by Roz Chorus: May the circle be unbroken through the seasons of rebirth. May Her love bind us together All the children of the earth. And the Lady, in the winter, Wears a robe of silver white, And she warms us with Her fire, With He spirit, and Her light. Chorus: And the Lady in the springtime, Wears a robe of living green, And renews us with Her water, Ever-living, cool and clean. Chorus: And the Lady, in the summer, wears a robe of shining gold. And She cools us with Her breezes, Breathing love for young and old. Chorus: And the Lady, in the autum, Wears a robe of ruby red. Earth, He body, overglowing, With Her gifts of wine and bread. Chorus: MOON OF SILVER I Tune: We Three Kings Maiden, Mother, Ancient Crone, Queen of Heaven on your throne, Praise we sing Thee, Love we bring Thee, For all that you have shown. Chorus: Oh, Moon of Silver, Sun of Gold, Gentle Lady, Lord so bold! Guide us ever, failing never, Lead us in ways of old. Lord of Darkness, Lord of Light, Gentle Brother, King of Might, Praise we sing thee, Love we bring Thee On this Solstice night. Chorus MOON OF SILVER II Tune: We Three Kings Carusone Come Thou, Lord, the Newborn Sun, Come, Sweet Mother, Holy One. Praise we sing Thee, Love we bring Thee As ever shall be done. Chorus: Oh, moon of silver, sung of gold! Gentle Lady, Lord so bold! Guide us ever, failing never, lead us all in ways of old. Maiden, Mother, Ancient Crone, Queen of Heaven on your throne, Praise we sing Thee, Love we bring Thee, For all that you have shown. Chorus Lord of Darkness, Lord of Light, Gentle Brother, King of Might! Praise we sing Thee, Love we bring Thee On this Solstice Night. Chorus MOTHER BERTA’S COMING TO TOWN You better watch out, when winter comes nigh You better not doubt, I’m telling you why. Mother Berta’s coming to town. She carries a sack made out of skin She dumps the toys out and stuffs the kids in’ Mother Berta’s coming to town. She rides on Master Skeggi A goat whose back is strong Her beard is gray and scraggy And her tail is ten feet long. With six or eight horns, a moustache or two Make a miste, she’s coming for YOU. Mother Berta’s coming to town. She knows with whom your sleeping She knows with whom you wake She knows each thought your thinking So don’t thing, for Goddess sake. So when the winds howl way up in the sky Listen as she and Skeggi pass by Mother Berta’s coming Mother Berta’s coming Mother Berta’s coming to town. MY FAVORITE THINGS Words by Oscar Hammerstein II Music by Richard Rodgers Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens Brown paper packages tied up with strings These are a few of my favorite things Cream colored ponies and crisp apple strudels Doorbells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings These are a few of my favorite things Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes Silver white winters that melt into springs These are a few of my favorite things When the dog bites When the bee stings When I'm feeling sad I simply remember my favorite things And then I don't feel so bad O TANNEBAUM I O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy leaves are so unchanging O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy leaves are so unchanging Not only green when summer's here But also when 'tis cold and drear O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy leaves are so unchanging O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You fill all hearts with gaiety O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You fill all hearts with gaiety On Solstice Day you stand so tall Affording joy to one and all O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You fill all hearts with gaiety O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You stand in verdant beauty O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You stand in verdant beauty Your boughs are green in summer's glow And do not fade in winter's snow O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum You stand in verdant beauty O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Much pleasure doth thou bring me O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Much pleasure doth thou bring me For ev'ry year thou lovely tree Brings to us all both joy and glee O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Much pleasure doth thou bring me O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy candles shine out brightly O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy candles shine out brightly Each bough doth hold its tiny light That makes each day to sparkle bright O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum Thy candles shine out brightly O TANNENBAUM II Words by Hilda Marshall O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum How true you stand unchanging! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum How true you stand unchanging! Your boughs so green in summertime Remain as green in wintertime O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum How true you stand unchanging! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum Your message is enduring! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum Your message is enduring! Of all the trees of field and hill You best recall the Lady's will O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum Your message is enduring! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum You teach us hope and patience! O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum You teach us hope and patience! Through icy day and frozen night You bear the promise of the Light O tannenbaum, O tannenbaum You teach us hope and patience! OH, COME ALL YE FAITHFUL Ellen Reed Oh, come all ye faithful (pagans) Gather round the Yule Fire Oh, come ye, oh, come ye, To call the Sun! Fires within us Call the Fire above us Chorus: O, come, let us invoke Him! O, come, let us invoke Him! O, come, let us invoke Him! Our Lord, the Sun! Yea, Lord, we greet Thee! Born again at Yuletide! Yule fires and candle flames Are lighted for You! Come to thy children Calling for thy blessing! Chorus Lady, we praise Thee, Keeper of the cauldron. Dark God to Bright God Through you in rebirth. Child, consort, ruler, All these things He’ll be to Thee Chorus Behold His radiance glowing, The strength of his love growing. The life force every glowing The birth of the Sun. OH HOLY NIGHT I Dianne T. DeShea Oh holy night! The stars shine in their brightness. It is the night of the dear Sun Child's birth. Long lay the world in growing cold and darkness 'Til He appeared, casting light o'er the earth. A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn. All nature sings! Oh raise your joyous voices! Oh night divine! This night the Sun is born! Oh night divine! Oh night, oh night divine! OH HOLY NIGHT II Words by Shekhinah Mountainwater Music by Adolphe Adam O holy night, the stars are brightly shining. It is the night of the Sun God's rebirth Long lay the world, in cold and darkness pining. `Til He appeared, and the soul felt its worth. A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices. For yonder breaks, a new and glorious morn. Rise from your knees! O hear the Pagan's voices! O night divine. O night when light was born. O night divine. O night divine. [Variant Verses] O holy night, the stars are brightly shining It is the night of the Goddess's birth Long lay the world in patriarchy pining Til She appeared and the soul felt its worth A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn Rise from your knees! O hear the women's voices! O night divine, O night when Light is born O night divine, O night, O night divine. OH HOLY NIGHT III Music by Adolphe Adam O holy night, so peaceful, dark, and quiet We're stuffed and tipsy, each Priestess and Priest Witches are holy, but find it hard to diet We may not orgy, but boy, can we feast! With stew and wassail, apples, nuts, and pumpkin We celebrate the deepest truths of life Please, pass the salt. Oh, taste that turkey dressing Oh, what a way to pray! On this night when God's reborn. O HOLY NIGHT IV O Holy Night The stars are brightly shining It is the night of the Sun’s rebirth. Long lay the land, in cold of winter pining. Til He appears to shine warmth on the Earth. A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, As yonder breaks the new and glorious dawn. Sing now with joy, O sing in celebration O Night divine O night of Holy birth O night divine O night, O night divine. Moon up above We gather in your soft light And wait for Him, Son of light to appear. Orb of our Mother Who holds us in her keeping Send us your child To bring warmth to our souls. The winter is cold, the nights are long in darkness We long for the spring, the hope that now begins. Sing now with joy O sing in celebration O night divine, O night of Holy birth, O night divine, O night, O night divine. ONE MORE CHRISTMAS TREE Words by Daniel J. Thompson Tune: O, Christmas Tree O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree Made of al-u-min-i-um. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree You can get them, anyone. Some are big, and some are small. You can get any size at all. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree Made of al-u-min-i-um. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree I sell them for ten dollars. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree They come in many colors. Some are red, and some are blue. They even come in plastic, too! O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree I sell them for ten dollars. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree You should buy one now from me. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree Satisfaction guaranteed. From now until the twenty-third The lowest price you've ever heard. O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree Buy one now, and get one FREE! OUR LADY GREENSLEEVES Tune: Greensleeves Midwinter moon is shining bright The yuletide log is burning. The people gather 'round tonight The Sabbat wheel is turning. Joy! Mirth! The Sun's rebirth! Now as of old we greet Thee. Gladdening is the song we sing Of praises to the Lady. 'Twas at the feast of bright Beltane When we all were a-Maying, Sweet minstrel Queen in Her gown of green Spring roundelay was playing. And though now roped in snow Her wintry garb deceives, for Bedipped with holly and mistletoe She is still Our Lady Greensleeves. So drink ye wassail everyone Good Pagans all made merry With wine as red as the reborn Sun, As red as holly-berry. Dancing, come join the ring, As Her Yuletide spell she weaves. Fair Queen, the evergreen, Sweet lovely Lady Greensleeves. OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS Over the river and though the woods To Grandmother's house we go The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh Through the white and drifted snow Over the river and through the woods Oh, how the wind does blow It stings the toes and bites the nose As over the ground we go Over the river and through the woods To have a full day of play Oh, hear the bells ringing ting a ling ling for it is Solstice Day Over the river and though the woods Trot fast my dapple gray Spring o'er the ground just like a hound For this is Solstice day Over the river and through the woods And straight through the barn yard gate It seems that we go so dreadfully slow It is hard to wait Over the river and through the woods Now grandma's cap I spy Hurrah for fun, the puddings done Hurrah for the pumpkin pie SHARE THE LIGHT Tune: The First Noel On this Winter holiday, let us stop and recall That this season is holy to one and to all. Unto some a Son is born, unto us comes a Sun, And we know, if they don't that all paths are one. (Thus showing us all that all paths are one) Chorus: Share the light, share the light! Share the light, share the Light! All paths are one on this holy night! Be it Chanukah or Yule, Christmas time or Solstice night, All celebrate the eternal light. Lighted tree or burning log, Or eight candle flames. All gods are one god, whatever their names. (This time is held holy, whatever the name) SILENT NIGHT Ellen Reed Silent night, Solstice Night All is calm, all is bright Nature slumbers in forest and glen Till in Springtime She wakens again Sleeping spirits grow strong! Sleeping spirits grow strong! Silent night, Solstice night Silver moon shining bright Snowfall blankets the slumbering Earth Yule fires welcome the Sun's rebirth Hark, the Light is reborn! Hark, the Light is reborn! Silent night, Solstice night Quiet rest till the Light Turning ever the rolling Wheel Brings the Winter to comfort and heal Rest your spirit in peace! Rest your spirit in peace! SILVER AND GOLD Words and Music by Johnny Marks, adapted by Susan M. Shaw Silver and gold, silver and gold Ev'ryone wishes for silver and gold How do you measure its worth? Just by the pleasure it gives here on earth Silver and gold, silver and gold Mean so much more when I see Silver and gold representing The Goddess and God for me SILVER BELLS I Words by Hilda Marshall City sidewalks, busy sidewalks Dressed in holiday style In the air there's a feeling of giving Children laughing, people passing Meeting smile after smile And on every street corner you hear... Silver bells, silver bells Yuletide returns to the city Ring-a-ling, hear them ring Chiming the winter away Strings of street lights, even stoplights Blink a bright red and green As the shoppers rush home with their treasures Hear the snow crunch, see the kids bunch Eyes as bright as their dreams And on every street corner you hear Silver bells, silver bells Yuletide returns to the city Ring-a-ling, hear them ring Chiming the winter away SLEIGH RIDE Written by Leroy Anderson Just hear those sleigh bells jingling Ring-ting-tingling too Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you. Outside the snow is falling And friends are calling "Yoo-hoo!" Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you. Giddy-up, giddy-up, giddy-up, let's go Let's look at the show We're riding in a wonderland of snow Giddy-up, giddy-up, giddy-up, it's grand Just holding your hand We're riding along with a song Of a wintry fairyland! Our cheeks are nice and rosy And comfy cozy are we We're snuggled up together Like two birds of a feather would be Let's take that road before us And sing a chorus or two Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you There's a birthday party at the home of Farmer Gray It'll be the perfect ending of a perfect day We'll be singing the songs we love to sing Without a single stop By the fireside where we watch the chestnuts pop (Pop pop pop!) There's a happy feeling nothing in the world can buy When we pass around the coffee and the pumpkin pie It'll nearly be like a picture print by Currier & Ives These wonderful things are the things We remember all through our lives Just hear those sleigh bells jingling Ring-ting-tingling too Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you. Outside the snow is falling And friends are calling "Yoo-hoo!" Come on, it's lovely weather For a sleigh ride together with you. THE FIRST NOEL The first noel as our message was told Was to certain poor women in cottages cold. In cottages where they awaited a child On a cold winter’s night that was so wild. Chorus: Noel, noel, noel, noel Goddess adore, she wishes us well. Come Isis with comfort to mothers dear, Who work out in the fields and from homes drive out fear From homes drive out fear Every day and each night So that life for Earth’s children will turn out all right. Chorus: Tonight’s noel as we have now learned, Is to all of Earth’s women whose labors were spurned. Whose labors were spurned by the patriarchs tools, Til the Goddess returned and abolished their rule. Chorus: THE HOLLY AND THE IVY I adapted by Susan M. Shaw The holly and the ivy When they are both full grown Of all the trees that are in the wood The holly bears the crown The rising of the sun And the running of the deer The playing of the merry tunes As we Pagans sing with cheer The holly bears a blossom White as the lily flower The Goddess shares the Solstice Sun Days grow longer with its power The rising of the sun And the running of the deer We celebrate with joyous hearts The Wheel of the Year The holly bears a berry As red as any blood The Goddess brings the Solstice Sun To allow our hopes to bud The rising of the sun And the running of the deer These blessed signs of life's renewal Will banish any fear The holly bears a prickle As sharp as any thorn The Goddess lights the Solstice Sun As we welcome the new morn The rising of the sun And the running of the deer The Green Man and the Holly King Are always welcome here The holly bears a bark As bitter as any gall The Goddess gives the Solstice Sun For the wonder of us all The rising of the sun And the running of the deer In perfect love and perfect trust May our hearts be ever clear The holly and the ivy When they are both full grown Of all the trees that are in the wood The holly bears the crown The rising of the sun And the running of the deer The playing of the merry tunes As we Pagans sing with cheer THE HOLLY AND THE IVY II Hilda Marshall The holly and the ivy When they are both full grown Of all the trees that are in the wood The holly bears the crown. Chorus Oh, the rising of the sun And the running of the deer The shining of the winter stars As the longer days draw near. The holly bears a blossom As white as any flower As our Mother bears the infant Sun In the winter's darkest hour. Chorus The holly bears a berry As red as any blood As our Father bears the hunter's spear for His hungry children's good. Chorus The holly bears a prickle As sharp as any thorn As we shall bear our song of hope On triumphant Yuletide morn. Chorus THE HOLLY AND THE IVY III The Holly and the Ivy When they are both full grown Of all the trees that are in the wood The Holly bears the crown Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The turning of the winter season Sweet singing all may hear. The Holly bears a berry As red as any blood And the ivy grows upon the rock Evergreen throughout the wood. Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The hand upon the harpstring Sweet singing in the choir The Holly bears a blossom White as the lily's flower And the Goddess bears the Sun again To bring us strength and power Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The playing of the merry pipes Sweet singing in the shire The Holly bears a prickle As sharp as any thorn And the Goddess in her ivy gown Greets the winter sun each morn Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The playing of the merry organ Sweet singing in the choir The Holly ever bears a bark Bitter as any gall And the ivy weaves within our lives Like the Goddess in us all Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer The turning of the winter season Sweet singing all may hear THE HOLLY AND THE IVY IV Peter Soderberg (Circle Network News, Winter 1981) The holly and the ivy, when they are both full grown, of all the trees that are in the woods the holly bears the crown Chorus: Oh, the rising of the sun and the running of the deer The playing, the rising of the Sun, and the running of the deer The days are short, the night is long--the Wheel of the Year. O, the Ivy is a Maiden, the Holly is her love, As they entwine at Yuletide, the Lady smiles above. Chorus The holly blooms in glory when solstice-day is near. We burn the Yule log to make the new-born Sun appear. Chorus 'Tis at Yule when the Mother gives birth to coming Spring; In the midst of winter-cold; the new-born Sun, the holly king. Chorus Throughout the land She wanders with the new day-lit god, And in the spring, sweet love is made where'er Her foot has trod. Chorus She is in all our doings, in all we love and fear-- How wondrous the ways in which our Lady does appear! Chorus Praise the Queen of Air and Darkness, of Fire and Water: All poetry's our Lady's art, all music sings to Her. Chorus All in the holy circle, hand to hand, we pass the blade to invoke the Lady's power, unsheathed by the Ivy Maid. Chorus Now blessed be the Earth at rest beneath our feet As we have hope of rest one day, our Lady for to greet. Chorus Out of darkness shall come dawning, out of winter shall come spring, Out of the toil of striving comes the peace our Lady brings. Chorus THE INFINITE SUN We are one with the infinite Sun Forever and ever and ever THE SOLSTICE CHILD Lunaea Wetherstone Tune: What Child is This? What child is this who brings such light that all who see Her grow hopefull? The Solstice candles, this darkest night, rekindle a flame in our soul. This, this is the Solstice child, the Maiden brilliant, the Maiden wild. Come, sisters, to hold Her near, the hope and the light of the New Year. [Variant] What Child is this, who brings such light That all who see Him grow hopeful The Solstice candles, this darkest night Rekindle a flame in our soul This, this is the Solstice Child The Sun God brilliant, the Sun God wild Come, Pagans, to hold Him near The hope and the light of the New Year What child is this, who rise now, From His Mother’s womb, returning? Her children greet most joyously The sight of His face’s bright burning. This, this is the Sun child born, The radiant one, the light returned. Born unto the world again, This child, the promise of summer. His growing light returns the warmth That darkness stole from out the Earth. To bud the leave, and blossoms bring To signal the Spring’s rebirth. This, this is the Sun child born, The radiant one, the light returned. Born unto the world again, This child, the promise of summer. THE THIRTEEN DAYS OF SOLSTICE Shekhinah Mountainwater On the first day of Solstice the Goddess sent to me, some healing to set me free. On the second day of Solstice the Goddess sent to me, Gifts from my love and some healing to set me free. etc. 1. Some healing to set me free 2. Gifts from my love 3. A helping dream 4. A branch of evergreen 5. Joyous song! 6. Greetings from my neighbors 7. Magick for the year 8. Fine conversation 9. Nine pearls of wisdom 10. Candles for the lighting 11. Deep contemplation 12. Showers of abundance 13. A grand celebration TOYLAND Words by Glen MacDonough Music by Victor Herbert Toyland, Toyland Little girl and boy land While you dwell within it You are ever happy then Childhood's joyland Mystic, merry Toyland Once you pass its borders You can ne'er return again THE TWELVE DAYS OF YULETIDE Carusone On the first day of Yuletide my true love gave to me, a Circle 'round a Pine Tree. On the second day of Yuletide my true love gave to me, Two pointed Horns and a Circle 'round a Pine Tree. etc. A Circle 'round a Pine Tree Two pointed Horns Three Silver Cups Four Pentagrams Five Magick Rings Six critters Fetching Seven Candles Glowing Eight Fires Blazing Nine Herbs a-Brewing Ten Stones a-Standing Eleven Brooms a-Flying Twelve Witches Dancing TRIPLE SOLSTICE GODDESS Words by Lunaea Weatherstone Music by John H. Hopkins Goddesses of the Solstice are we Bringers of the Star and the Tree Maiden, Mother, Crone uncover Winter's deep mystery Chorus: Oh, time of wisdom, time of light Time of Winter's darkest night Goddess hold me, Love enfold me Open me to Your light Maiden of the darkness, I sing Underworlds of wisdom, I bring Seeking, learning, Kore returning Bearing the light of Spring Demeter, the slumbering Earth Dreaming of the Daughter's rebirth Candles lighted, world united Knowing our own true worth Crone of deepest wisdom, I dwell Deep in Time's mysterious well Dreaming, daring, teaching, sharing Hecate's secret spell UP ON THE HOUSETOP Traditional, adapted by Susan M. Shaw Up on the housetop reindeer pause Out jumps good old Santa Claus Down through the chimney with magick gifts To raise the power in our circle swift CHORUS: Ho, ho, ho, who wouldn't go? Ho, ho, ho, who wouldn't go? Up on the housetop, click, click, click Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick First comes the stocking of sister May, Some altar tools would make her day. Give her some candles and a bell, Sea salt, a chalice, and a wand as well. Chorus Look in the stocking of brother Bill. Oh, just see that glorious fill! Here is a Hammer of Thor to wear, An athame sheathed, handle with care! Chorus WE, THE QUEENS OF HEAVEN AND EARTH Words by Lady Cybele Tune: We Three Kings Music by John H. Hopkins We, the Queens of heaven and Earth Bring you light and joy and mirth Love and laughter, ever after Giving the Sun God birth Chorus: Maid and Mother and Crone are we! Hertha, Ea, Bina, Ge! All life giving, every living Ruling Earth and Moon and Sea Maiden fair, I rule the spring Flowers and warmth are what I bring Greening, growing, freshets flowing Hark how Creation sings Chorus Dark My ways of mystery Queen of night and death and sea Wisdom reaping, dreamless sleeping All come at last to me Chorus Glorious now, behold Him arise! King and God and Sacrifice! Io Cernunnos, risen among us Filling the winter skies Chorus WE THREE CRONES Heartsong Tune: We Three Kings We three crones of magic-past are, Bearing gifts, we traverse afar, Fields & fountain, moor & mountain, Following each our star. Chorus Oh, star of wonder, star of might, Star of radiant beauty bright, Inward leading, still proceeding, Guide us with thy magick light. Gold I bring, the Earth's hidden gleam, Guards our Mem'ry, draws forth our dream; Weary-curing, strong enduring, Holding time's circling stream. Chorus Frankincense I carry with me. Incense aids the spirit to see; Analyzing, wize, up-rising, Sense of the Earth, flow free! Chorus Myrrh is mine, it's bitter perfume Lifts new life, a magical broom; Praying, flying, purifying, Away with old lingering gloom. Chorus Glorious gifts of magic (wimmin) we praise, Maiden, Mother, Ancient of Days; Strength, and sense, and energy; whence Return to our sacred ways. Chorus WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS Oregon Pagan Council We wish you a Merry Solstice We wish you a Merry Christmas We wish you a Happy New Year And a Bright Hanukkah We wish you religious freedom We wish you true equality We wish you peace, strength and wisdom To preserve our Gaia Good tidings to all, whatever your creed May the Gods bring you plenty, to fill all your needs We wish you a Merry Solstice We wish you a Merry Christmas We wish you a Happy New Year And a Bright Hanukkah WE WISH YOU A MERRY SOLSTICE Words by Susan M. Shaw We wish you a merry Solstice We wish you a merry Solstice We wish you a merry Solstice And a happy New Year! Chorus: Good tidings we bring To you and your kin We wish you a merry Solstice! And a happy New Year! Our feasting is not so simple Our feasting is not so simple Our feasting is not so simple On this Hollyday! We've eggnog and punch and wassail We've eggnog and punch and wassail We've eggnog and punch and wassail And hot chocolate too We've breads, cakes and Solstice cookies We've breads, cakes and Solstice cookies We've breads, cakes and Solstice cookies Plus crackers and buns Now bring us some figgy pudding Now bring us some figgy pudding Now bring us some figgy pudding And bring it right now We won't go until we get some We won't go until we get some We won't go until we get some So bring some right now WHAT CHILD IS THIS? Words by Anie Burke-Webb Tune: Greensleeves What child is this, who rises now from His Mother's womb returning Her children greet most joyously the sight of His face's bright burning Chorus: This, this is the Sun child born The radiant one, the light returned Born unto the world again This child, the promise of summer His growing light returns the warmth that darkness stole from out the Earth To bud the leaves, and blossoms bring to signal the Spring's rebirth Chorus WINTER WONDERLAND Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? In the lane snow is glistening What a beautiful sight, we're happy tonight Walking in a winter wonderland Gone away is the bluebird, Here to stay is a new bird He sings a love song as we go along Walking in a winter wonderland In the meadow we can build a snowman And pretend that he is Justice Brown He'll say, "Are you married?" We'll say "No, man," But you can do the job while you're in town!" Later on we'll conspire, as we dream by the fire And face unafraid the plans that we made Walking in a winter wonderland. YE CHILDREN ALL OF MOTHER EARTH Ellen Reed Tune: "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" Ye children all of Mother Earth join hands and circle around To celebrate the Solstice night When our lost Lord is found. Rejoice, the year has begun again The Sun blesses skies up above So share the season together now In everlasting Love! YULE FIRES John G. MacKinnon Tune: Greensleeves In ancient days the folk of old When chilled with fright by winter's cold Did kindle up a great Yule fire With leaping flames in its great pyre; So to entice the waning sun To rise again and wider run; It's fiery course across the sky, To warm them so they would not die. So we, whose minds now sense a chill Of anger in the evil will, The human conflict, hate, and strife, Which hold a menace over life; Would kindle up a flame of love That we within our hearts may move, In Yuletide joy, with love embrace And thus abide in peace and grace. AULD LANG SYNE Traditional Should auld acquaintance be forgot And never brought to mind Should auld acquaintance be forgot And days of Auld Lang Syne Chorus: For Auld Lang Syne, my dear For Auld Lang Syne We'll take a cup of kindness yet For Auld Lang Syne And here's a hand my trusty friend And gives a hand o' thine We'll take a cup o' kindness yet For Auld Lang Syne Chorus APPLE TREE WASSAIL (This is part of an old English ritual to renew the fertility of the family apple tree. Dance around the tree in a circle, raising energy by singing the carol. After the verse, peak the power into the tree by shouting the blessing at the end. The ritual also includes watering the tree with a wassail libation.) Old apple tree we'll wassail thee And hoping thou wilt bear. The Lord does know where we shall be To be merry another year. To blow well and to bear well, And so merry let us be. Let ev'ry man drink up his cup - Here's health to the old apple tree! Capfuls! Hatfuls! Baskets full! Bushels full! Barrels full! Barn floors full! And a little heap under the stairs! Gower Wassail (A good Pagan prescription for how to do wassailing) A wassail, a wassail, throughout all this town, Our cup it is white and our ale it is brown. Our wassail is made of the good ale and true, Some nutmeg and ginger, it's the best we can brew. chorus: Fol the dol, fol the dol de dol, Fol the dol de dol, fol the dol de dee. Fol the der- o, fol the daddy, Sing tu re lye do. We know by the moon that we are not too soon, And we know by the sun that we are not done. We know by the stars that we are not too far And we know by the ground that we are within sound. Our wassail is made of an elderberry bough And so, my good neighbor, we'll drink unto thou. Besides all of that, you'll have apples in store, Pray let us come in, for it's cold by the door. We hope that your apple trees prosper and bear So we may have cider when we call next year. >And where you've one barrel we hope you'll have ten So we can have cider when we call again. Here's our wassail boys, roving weary and cold, Drop a bit of small silver into our old bowl. And if we're alive for another New Year Perhaps we may come and see who do live here. Wassail, Wassail, All Over the Town (A couple of Christmas references have sneaked into this one over the centuries, but I like it anyway because of its earthy, at least Pagan-ish blessings for all the animals and people in a farm household.) Wassail, wassail, all over the town! Our toast it is white, and our ale it is brown. Our bowl it is made of the white maple tree. With the wassailing bowl we'll drink to thee. So here is to Cherry and to his right cheek, Pray God send our master a good piece of beef. And a good piece of beef that may we all see, With the wassailing bowl we'll drink to thee. And here is to Dobbin and to his right eye, Pray God send our master a good Christmas pie. And a good Christmas pie that may we all see, With the wassailing bowl we'll drink to thee. So here is to Broad May and to her broad horn, Pray God send our master a good crop of corn. And a good crop of corn that may we all see, With the wassailing bowl we'll drink to thee. And here is to Fillpail and to her left ear, Pray God send our master a happy New Year. And a happy New Year as e'er he did see, With the wassailing bowl we'll drink to thee. And here is to Colly and to her long tail, Pray God send our master he never may fail. A bowl of strong beer; I pray you draw near, And our jolly wassail it's then you shall hear. Come, butler, come fill us a bowl of the best, Then we hope that your soul in heaven may rest. But if you do draw us a bowl of the small, Then down shall go butler, bowl and all. Then here's to the maid in the lily white smock Who tripped to the door and pulled back the lock. Who tripped to the door and pulled back the pin For to let these jolly wassailers in. FELLOW ASTRO-LISTERS: Over the years, I've added new songs to my list of astrological Christmas Carols. Please feel free to copy these and sing them with your astrology friends and family. To the tune of SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN You better watch out You better not cry You better not pout I'm tellin' you why Saturn's claws are coming around. He's making a list Checking it twice Gonna make sure You pay the price Saturn's claws are coming around. He knows when you've be playing. He knows when you're at work. He knows if you've been bad or good And he knows if you're a jerk! So, you better watch out You better not cry You better not pout I'm tellin' you why Saturn's claws are coming around. To the tune of OH CHRISTMAS TREE O Jupiter, O Jupiter, How lovely are thy transits. O Jupiter, O Jupiter, How lovely are thy transits. You make the worst seem okay You make the hardest work seem play O Jupiter, O Jupiter, How lovely are thy transits. To the tune of DECK THE HALLS Deck your charts with trines and sextiles Fa la la la la, la la la la Put your client charts in piles Fa la la la la, la la la la The ones with lots of squares go here Fa la la, la la la, la la la All the others have good cheer Fa la la la la, la la la la Call the Leos, make a party Fa la la la la, la la la la Let the Geminis all be tardy Fa la la la la, la la la la The Aries will of course come early Fa la la, la la la, la la la And the earth signs will come surely Fa la la la la, la la la la Have the Cancers bring the food Fa la la la la, la la la la The Sagitarrians will be rude Fa la la la la, la la la la Scorpios are up to no-good Fa la la la la, la la la la Capricorns will do just as they should Fa la la la la, la la la la Now the Christmas party's ended Fa la la la la, la la la la All the signs have been offended Fa la la la la, la la la la We each go back to our natal chart Fa la la, la la la, la la la And we ply our cosmic art Fa la la la la, la la la la To the tune of RUDOLF, THE RED-NOSED REINDEER Pluto, the coldest planet Had a very hidden side And if you ever felt it You would know how it applied All of the other planets Seemed so light and full of glee When, set next to deep, dark Pluto With its intense mystery. Then one Saturn transit came A burden came to stay But Pluto with it trine so bright Eased the pressure of that night Then all the planets loved him And they moved so rapidly But Pluto, the deep, dark planet Kept its intense mystery. To the tune of COME REST YE MERRY GENTLEMEN Come rest your pens and ephemeris There's nothing you should do Today your new computer came To calculate charts for you To save us from that dreary work More time to ply our arts- Oh, tidings of calculated charts Calculated charts Good tidings of calculated charts To the tune of COME ALL YE FAITHFUL Come all ye planets Jupiter and Saturn Neptune, Uranus, and Mercury Come and behold Mars Venus, earth, and Pluto Oh come let us observe them Oh come let us observe them Oh come let us observe them In our lives. -- All lyrics by Rick Merlin Levine -- COME REST YE MERRY GENTLEMEN Come rest your pens and ephemeris There's nothing you should do Today your new computer came To calculate charts for you To save us from that dreary work More time to ply our arts- Oh, tidings of calculated charts Calculated charts Good tidings of calculated charts Enjoy! |