O' Little Town of Bethlehem, the famous, beloved carol did not originate in the Holy Land as one might think, but from good ol’ Boston.

Phillip Brooks: A Man of Faith and Art

Phillip Brooks, born in 1835, was an illustrious figure in the ecclesiastical landscape of Boston. Serving as the 9th rector of Trinity Church, Brooks was not just an influential cleric; he was a visionary with a deep and abiding passion for music and poetry. The Trinity Church, a landmark in Boston’s Back Bay, stands as a testament to Brooks' commitment to his congregation and his significant role in the city's religious community.

An Inspirational Journey to the Holy Land

In 1865, three years before the carol was written, Brooks embarked on a life-changing journey to the Holy Land. The trip was meant to provide him with a much-needed respite after the traumas of the American Civil War, but it ended up doing much more than just that.

On Christmas Eve of that year, Brooks rode on horseback from Jerusalem to Bethlehem. As he approached the town, the peace and tranquility of the surroundings struck him profoundly. He attended a midnight service at the Church of the Nativity, reputedly built over the birthplace of Jesus. That experience, witnessing the serene beauty of Bethlehem and contemplating the profound events it once witnessed, left an indelible mark on Brooks’ soul.

Birth of a Classic Carol

Three years later, in 1868, Brooks found himself reminiscing about that magical Christmas Eve in Bethlehem. Inspired by his memories, he penned the lyrics of "O' Little Town of Bethlehem." The beautiful words he wrote capture the quiet majesty of the birthplace of Christ and the profound significance of the events that took place there.

The music that accompanies the lyrics was composed by Lewis Redner, the organist at Brooks' church. Together, the words and music create a hauntingly beautiful carol that captures the mystery and wonder of the Christmas story.

Legacy

Over 150 years later, "O' Little Town of Bethlehem" remains one of the most cherished carols of the festive season. Its lyrics transport us to that ancient town, reminding us of the peace and hope that the birth of Jesus symbolizes.

Brooks' contribution to the Christmas canon is a poignant reminder that inspiration can strike in the most unexpected places.