76. The first Noel the angel did say
Traditional
“Noel” is a French word which came to mean several things—a “song of the Birthday,” or “Christmas,” or “Carol.” A carol is a religious song telling the story of a place or person or event. It is less formal and solemn than an ordinary church hymn and was originally intended to be sung outside rather than within the church walls. The words and music of this carol are traditional, which means that no one knows who composed them or when. They are known to have existed as early as the 17th century. It is a very popular carol even though not quite true to the gospel account in verse 2, for it was the wise men, not the shepherds, that saw the star. Since most of the words have to do with the coming of the wise men, the carol is fully as suitable for Epiphany as for Christmas.
MUSIC. The tune THE FIRST NOEL is one of the best-known of all English carol airs, especially in the west of England.