Replies

Although it may be more of a Christmas carol, one of my favorite hymns for this time of the year is "Star of the East," which noted songwriter Amanda Kennedy wrote in 1918 and set to the melody of "Star of the Sea," one of her earlier hits. The lyrics, with their reference to death and "dark billows" may reflect the environment of war, pestilence and political and economic turmoil that dominated the world of 1918. This song truly brings a message of hope in contrast to the insipid, feel-good garbage of tunes like "Holly Jolly Christmas" which we must endure every December.

My favorite recording of the tune is by the Trinity Choir

Here are the words:

STAR OF THE EAST

Star of the East, oh Bethlehem's star,
Guiding us on to heaven afar.
Sorrow and grief are lulled by thy light.
Thou hope of each mortal, in death's lonely night.

Fearless and tranquil, we look up to Thee,
Knowing thou beam'st through eternity.
Help us to follow where Thou still dost guide
Pilgrims of earth so wise.

Oh star that leads to God above.
Whose rays are peace, and joy, and love.
Watch o'er us still till life hath ceased.
Beam on, bright star, sweet Bethlehem’s star.

Star of the East, thou hope of the soul.
While round us here the dark billows roll.
Lead us from sin to glory afar,
Oh, star of the East, thou sweet Bethlehem's star.