[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 197 (Thursday, November 30, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H5995]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      GOD REST YE MERRY, GENTLEMEN

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Texas (Mr. Carter) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as Christmastime approaches, I rise 
to share the history of one of the most beloved carols--and there are 
more to come.
  ``God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen.''
  The first line means, gentlemen, may God keep you in good spirits--a 
blessing.
  Immensely popular throughout its history, this carol even merits a 
mention by Charles Dickens in his famous tale, ``A Christmas Carol.'' 
It is also a very old carol and was almost certainly sung by wandering 
groups of singers called waits. In Merrie Olde England, music was an 
important part of everyday life. Minstrels carried the news of the day 
from town to town and were often handsomely rewarded for their efforts.
  In many towns, the waits played the role of town criers, singing the 
hours of the day and reporting local happenings. Christmastime kept 
them especially busy. As they strolled through the snowy streets, they 
told the story of the nativity in song, adding to the festive 
atmosphere. Townspeople would show their appreciation by giving the 
singers money or food.
  These are the words of that famous carol:

     God rest ye merry, gentlemen; let nothing you dismay.
     Remember, Christ our Savior was born on Christmas Day.
     To save us all from Satan's power, when we were gone astray.
     tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy.
     tidings of comfort and joy.
  In Bethlehem, in Israel, this blessed babe was born,
  And laid within a manger upon this blessed morn;
  The which His mother Mary did nothing take in scorn.
     tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy.
     tidings of comfort and joy.
     From God our Heavenly Father, a blessed angel came;
     And unto certain shepherds brought tidings of the same;
     How that in Bethlehem was born the Son of God by name.
     tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy.
     tidings of comfort and joy.

  I hope that you keep this history in mind of this beautiful song as 
you celebrate during the holiday season.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of central Texas, I wish you all 
a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday.

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