‘12 Days of Christmas’: Featuring the Writings of Kenneth I. Morse

This is the first in an occasional Newsline series in the run-up to the 2013 Annual Conference. The 100th anniversary of the birth of poet and hymnwriter Kenneth I. Morse will be remembered when the Conference meets on a theme based on his hymn, “Move in Our Midst.” From now until Annual Conference, Newsline will take a look back at Morse’s work on the editorial staff of “Messenger” during the turbulent 1960s and ’70s, when he made creative contributions to the church that still speak today.

Morse wrote the lyrics for this alternative Christmas carol, and a new tune with harmonization by Wilbur Brumbaugh (see the accompanying graphic for the music, copyright Church of the Brethren):

On the first day of Christmas God gives us all a child, A baby, a brother, A friend both meek and mild.	On the second day of Christmas God sorrows at our strife. The marvel, the wonder, He turns our death to life.
On the third day of Christmas God lifts a flaming star That all men should seek him Who finds them where they are.	On the fourth day of Christmas The heavens burn with light. No shadow, no darkness Can turn that day to night.
On the fifth day of Christmas The skies break into song. Such singing, such music Allows no place for wrong.	On the sixth day of Christmas God wraps the earth in joy. Come shepherds, come sages To honor Mary’s boy.
On the seventh day of Christmas God gives the world its king. Let old men and children Begin and ever sing.	On the eighth day of Christmas God says, “Let hatred cease. This child and his kingdom Shall bring the world its peace.”
On the ninth day of Christmas God speaks a mighty word. The burdened, the lonely Find welcome with their Lord.	On the tenth day of Christmas God says, “Good men, look up. Let fears be forgotten And trust this child of hope.”
On the eleventh day of Christmas God’s purpose is unfurled. A Savior is given, for God so loves the world.	On the twelfth day of Christmas What shall this Savior prove? His mission is mercy, His ministry is love.