Good morning, everyone! Today I’d like to continue our Christmas carol theme by sharing with you the history behind one of my personal favorites, “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence.”

While some may put forth a Northern European favorite like “O Come All Ye Faithful” or “Good King Wenceslas” as the oldest carol still sung today (both were composed in the 13th century), the award most likely goes to the song I’ve posted above.

“Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence” was a Greek hymn that originated in the 4th century as preparation for taking communion. It emphasizes God’s holiness and power, as well as the awe we should experience as we contemplate his shocking choice to descend from heaven, dwell with us, and redeem us with his very own body. In the 19th century, this hymn was translated, paired with a French folk tune, and revitalized as an Advent carol. I love the richness of its imagery and its unique role as a window to what worship in the early church might have been like.

See you tomorrow!