O Holy Night

"Cantique de Noel," or "O Holy Night," has a controversial history with roots in France. The lyrics were written by an atheist poet and the composer was Jewish. The Catholic Church tried to bury the song, but it had a unique effect. During the Franco-Prussian War, a French soldier sang the carol on Christmas Eve, leading to a ceasefire and a celebration of Christmas. The song's melody continues to make it a favorite today. Cantique de Noel, also known as O Holy Night, has its roots in France, and it's a favorite among my Facebook family. But did you know it has a controversial yet dreamy history? The lyrics were written by French poet Placide Capone, and he was an atheist. The composer, Adolf Adams, was Jewish. Neither of these guys attended church. The carol was declared unsuitable for Christmas services, and the Catholic Church tried its best to bury the song. The carol also had its unique energy and effect throughout history. In the Franco-Prussian War of 1871, a French soldier started singing O Holy Night on Christmas Eve. This event took place in the middle of a fight when the soldier suddenly stood up in his trench and faced the perplexed Germans, unarmed, and broke out into the song. The legend goes that the Germans responded by singing a carol of their own. The hostilities were subsequently ceased for 24 hours, and soldiers from both camps celebrated Christmas. The melody alluring in music makes this song still a favorite amongst people today. O Holy Night, the stars are brightly shining, it is the night of the dear St. Lawrence's birth. Long lay the world, in sin and error pining, till he appeared and the souls felt his worth. A thrill of hope, the weary soul rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn. Fall on your knees, O hear the angels' voices, O night divine, O night when Christ was born. O Holy Night, O night, O night divine.