The angel Gabriel from Heaven came,
His wings as drifted snow,
His eyes as flame; `All hail,´ said he,
`Thou lowly maiden Mary,´
Most highly favoured lady, Gloria!

`For known a blessed Mother thou shalt be,
All generations laud and honour thee,
Thy Son shall be Emmanuel, by seers foretold,´
Most highly favoured lady, Gloria!

Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head,
`To me be as it pleaseth God,´ she said,
`My soul shall laud and magnify his holy name.´
Most highly favoured lady, Gloria!

Of her, Emmanuel, the Christ, was born
In Bethlehem, all on a Christmas morn,
And Christian folk throughout the world will ever say:
Most highly favoured lady, Gloria!