Joseph Dearest, Joseph Mine
Words: German carol, 15th century; translated by Percy Dearmer (1867-1936), alt.
Tune: RESONENT IN LAUDIBUS, 14th Century German carol

Joseph, Dearest Joseph mine,
Will you cradle the Child divine.
God reward thee and all that’s thine,
In paradise, so prays the mother Mary.

    Chorus
    He comes among us at Christmastide
    At Christmastide in Bethlehem
    We shall bring him from far and wide,
    Love’s diadem
    Jesus, Jesus;
    Lo, he comes and loves and saves and frees us.

Gladly dear one, Lady mine
I'll help to cradle the Child of thine.
God’s own light on us both shall shine,
In paradise, as prays the mother Mary. Chorus

Peace to all that have goodwill!
God, who heaven and earth doth fill,
Comes to turn us away from ill,
As all may see In Jesus, Son of Mary.  Chorus

Soon is born Emmanuel,
Prophesied by Ezekiel,
Promised Mary by Gabriel, Ah, who can tell
Thy praises, Son of Mary. Chorus