The First Nowell

The first Nowell the angel did say was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay

The First Nowell is a hymn text by Anonymous (English carol) (1300) in Irregular with refrain meter. Found in elw 300, gather4 507, lbw 56, lsb 387.

A narrative carol telling the story of the birth of Jesus through the shepherds and the Magi following the star.

History & Background

A traditional English carol, first published in Sandys and Gilbert collections in 1823. The origins are medieval.

Hymnal Appearances

  • Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 300
  • Gather 4th Edition — 507
  • Lutheran Book of Worship — 56
  • Lutheran Service Book — 387

Bulletin Note

The First Nowell — English carol, c.13th c.

Preaching Connection

Luke 2 and Matthew 2 — the shepherds and the Magi following the star to Bethlehem.

Themes

Christmas Epiphany Narrative

Look Further