Choir Notes

The Glorious Bells of Christmas
From Music and The Spoken Word
Delivered By: Lloyd D. Newell • Program 4188

Part of what makes the holiday season so memorable is the way it delights our senses with wonderful sights, sounds, and smells. From twinkling lights to delicate snowflakes, from a cinnamon-scented kitchen to a cozy, crackling fire, every sensation of this time of year seems to set our hearts aglow with goodwill.

But perhaps our deepest emotions at Christmastime are inspired by the music of this glorious season. And throughout the world’s repertoire of Christmas music, bells seem to be the supreme symbols of our celebration. They ring throughout the season, like heavenly chimes heralding the happy news that Christmas brings. From the deep gong of a grand bell tower to the jingling of shiny sleigh bells, we thrill to their magical sound.

For centuries, bells have been a familiar part of our traditions on every continent and in every culture. They are heard from ships and schools, churches and clock towers. They have rung at many important moments in our lives—wedding bells announce our joyous unions, and funeral bells summon and comfort mourners. Bells have been used to symbolize liberty and to call us to gather, to celebrate, and to worship.

Truly, no more fitting symbol could be found for Christmas, for this is a season that brings people together to celebrate and worship. As bells have done throughout history, Christmas bells proclaim liberty and comfort those who mourn. They ring with the peace, joy, and hope that accompanied the holy birth we celebrate. Bells ring throughout the year, but none are as significant as those that ring at Christmastime.

All around the world, we rejoice to hear beloved bells ring. As we reflect upon the blessings of this wonderful time of year, let us count among them the great news of the glorious bells of Christmas.