The Angel Gabriel from heaven came, 

his wings as drifted snow, his eyes as flame; 

'All hail,' said he, 'thou lowly maiden Mary, 

most highly favoured lady.' 

Gloria! 

'For known a blessèd Mother thou shalt be, 

all generations laud and honour thee, 

thy son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold; 

most highly favoured lady.' 

Gloria! 

Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head, 

'To me be as it pleaseth God,' she said, 

'My soul shall laud and magnify his holy name': 

most highly favoured lady. 

Gloria! 

Of her, Emmanuel, the Christ was born 

in Bethlehem, all on a Christmas morn, 

and Christian folk throughout the world will ever say 

'Most highly favoured lady.' 

Gloria!