Christina G. Rossetti wrote the words to “How Great Our Joy” in the mid-1800s to the tune of a traditional Irish melody. David Evans added the harmony in 1927. How great is our joy to personally know the King of kings and Lord of lords.

1 While by the sheep we watched at night,
glad tidings brought an angel bright.

Refrain:
How great our joy!
Great our joy!
Joy, joy, joy!
Joy, joy, joy!
Praise we the Lord in heaven on high!
Praise we the Lord in heaven on high!

2 There shall be born, so he did say,
in Bethlehem a child today.

Refrain:
How great our joy!
Great our joy!
Joy, joy, joy!
Joy, joy, joy!
Praise we the Lord in heaven on high!
Praise we the Lord in heaven on high!

3 There shall the child lie in a stall,
this child who shall redeem us all.

Refrain:
How great our joy!
Great our joy!
Joy, joy, joy!
Joy, joy, joy!
Praise we the Lord in heaven on high!
Praise we the Lord in heaven on high!

4 This gift of God we’ll cherish well,
that ever joy our hearts shall fill.

Refrain:
How great our joy!
Great our joy!
Joy, joy, joy!
Joy, joy, joy!
Praise we the Lord in heaven on high!
Praise we the Lord in heaven on high!