This work for SATB mixed chorus and soprano solo is dedicated to Blodwen Andrews (1884-1973), a Welsh pianist and singer, and “senior member of the Cathedral Choir.” For many years, Blodwen ensured that tea was served at choir rehearsals. The work was revised and re-titled Christmas Prayer in 1974. The soprano solo is a highlight of the piece, extending to a high B. The final cadence is a delicious Howells- and Tallis-inspired cross-relation: both the major and minor third of an A major chord resolves at last to E major.
Lyrics
Come, now, be born in me. No stable ever held more wild unrest than this my heart which would become your home. The beasts are here moving in darkness and only you, my Lord, would wish to enter such a place; no angel song, no gifts, only the shadows, only emptiness. But come, and coming bring your prophecy and you may rest, and I shall watch a while.
—Unknown
