Gloria
The Calvary Chancel Choir Lyrics

The Calvary Chancel Choir's song "Gloria" is a hymn that glorifies God and celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. The repetition of "Gloria" emphasizes the joyful, jubilant nature of the song. "In excelsis Deo" is Latin for "in the highest to God," and reinforces the notion that this song is a celebration of the divine. By repeating "Glory" several times, the song offers a more general praise of God, while the lyric "Gloria in excelsis Deo" offers a more specific praise, highlighting the spiritual significance of Christ's birth.

The second verse of the song focuses on the birth of Jesus Christ and his role as the savior of mankind. The lyric "Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace" refers to the prophecy that the Messiah would bring peace to the world. The following line, "Hail the Sun of Righteousness," is a nod to the Old Testament prophecy that the Messiah would bring light and righteousness. The idea that Jesus brings "Light and life to all" is supported by his teaching and his selfless deeds. Mentioning Jesus as having "healing in his wings" refers to the healing miracles he performed during his ministry. The lyric "Mild he lays his glory by" means that Jesus has temporarily given up his divine status to become human, and "Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth" signifies Jesus' purpose in being born--to save humanity from sin and give them eternal life.

Overall, "Gloria" is a song that rejoices in Christ's birth and in God's glory. The song represents a devotion to a higher being and an expression of overwhelming gratitude for what God has done for people.