In this episode of the Lifespring! WhyChristmas Advent Calendar, Steve Webb and James Cooper explore the history and heart behind one of the most recognizable Christian Christmas carols in the world, O Come All Ye Faithful.

The History of a Masterpiece

Today we open the door to find the story behind James Cooper’s favorite carol, “O Come All Ye Faithful.” While it was attributed to many authors over the years, historical research points to an English Catholic priest named John Wade as the true author. Wade wrote the carol in the 1700s during a time of great religious upheaval in the UK.

Following the Protestant Jacobite Rebellion in 1745, life became difficult for Catholics in Britain. John Wade fled to Douay, France, where his skills as a calligrapher and musician were put to use preserving historic church music. It was here, around 1750, that he composed the beautiful tune known as Adeste Fideles. A decade later, he added six Latin verses to accompany the melody.

Translation and Popularity

The version we sing today in English did not appear until 1841. Frederick Oakley translated the first three verses and the sixth verse, while William Thomas Brooke translated verses four and five. Interestingly, for many years, Wade did not receive credit for his work. Some even attributed the piece to the 13th century saint, St. Bonaventure, or called it the “Portuguese Carol” after it was performed at the Portuguese Embassy in London in 1860 where the organist claimed it was written by a Mr. John Reading.

The carol eventually found its way into the mainstream, even appearing on the US Top Ten charts three separate times. One unique tradition regarding this song is that the final verse, which begins with “Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning,” is traditionally reserved for Christmas Day or midnight mass services as it celebrates the specific morning of Christ’s birth.

Musical Features

This episode features a special audio experience, including a dramatization of a cold Christmas Eve night and multiple musical renditions of the carol. Steve recommends using headphones or earbuds for this particular show to get an extra measure of enjoyment from the production. You will hear performances by:

• Bryan Duncan and the NehoSoul Band with the theme “This Christmas.”
• Julie Melton performing the carol on the organ.
• Gary Sunblad providing a moving rendition as the Homeless Man.
• Jill Parr as the featured final singer.

To learn more about the history of your favorite carols, visit WhyChristmas.com. You can also explore more Christian content and music at LifespringMedia.com.

Entities: John Wade, Frederick Oakley, James Cooper, Steve Webb, Adeste Fideles, Bryan Duncan, NehoSoul Band, Julie Melton, Gary Sunblad, Jill Parr.

Summary: This episode provides a deep dive into the origins of “O Come All Ye Faithful,” tracing its roots from 18th-century France to its modern-day popularity, accompanied by unique musical performances and a classic Lifespring dramatization.

May the story of this carol remind you of the invitation to come and adore Him. For James Cooper and Steve Webb, we look forward to seeing you tomorrow for Day 22!