Carol of the Bells

 

Carol of the Bells.  

A hauntingly beautiful song from Ukranian roots.

Written in 1914 by Leontovych, the song was first called  "Shchedryk" and based on an ancient tune handed down through the years.  It was about nature and springtime and, in particular, watching for the coming.

From 1918-1921 a brief period of Ukraine as an independent republic called for a push in sharing their culture.  Consequently, Shchedryk was taken onto the world stage by a traveling choir.  When that choir came to North America and performed at Carnegie Hall it is believed to have led to the introduction of the tune to Peter Wilhousky.  

He wrote the lyrics which made the now popular tune, a Christmas hit  that has continued to play a prominent role in our musical celebrations ever since.

Ironically, Leontyvich was actually executed by Bolshevik agents for continuing to share his Ukranian culture. 

And now 100 years later, similar war exists not only there but around the world making it ever more appropriate for the song that once looked forward with promise to a bountiful spring to instead look forward to the coming of the celebration of the Christ child.  

He who truly is the bringer of bounty.  

The healer of all.  

The Prince of Peace. 

As Elder Patrick Keaton taught, “Our Savior is the Prince of Peace, the Great Healer, the only One who can truly cleanse us from the sting of sin and the poison of pride and change our rebellious hearts into converted, covenant hearts. His Atonement is infinite and embraces us all.”

And so as the lyrics so aptly encourage let this Christmas season be filled with, “words of good cheer filling the air everywhere.”