The Chelsea Carol was commissioned by the Choirs of Birmingham-Southern College, Lester Seigel, conductor, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the college’s Service of Lessons and Carols.
Original Latin text by Eric’s long-time collaborator Charles Anthony Silvestri.
The Chelsea Carol (English translation)
Come thou, Wisdom,
Gift of Winter–
Strengthen us to wait
For that which is to come.
Come thou, come thou dream-bearer,
Time-bearer,
Queen of sun and stars.
Come thou, come thou moon-bearer,
Frost-bearer,
Queen and mother of the seasons.
Holy lady, Queen!
Holy lady of silver!
Purest holy lady!
Come thou, come thou flower-bearer,
Sun bearer,
Queen of gleaming white light.
Come thou, come thou sheaf-bearer,
Snow bearer,
Queen, Mistress of Dreams.
Come, Thou, Mother!
Come to us!
Come Lady!
Come thou, Wisdom,
Gift of Winter–
Strengthen us to wait
For that which is to come.
Charles Anthony Silvestri
