Out on the hills

We recall with wonder that shepherds in Roman Palestine saw the light of Heaven’s glory surrounding an angel who pointed them to the nativity of their Shepherd-Saviour, and that a star like no other led wise men from the East to the infant King of kings. It was the beginning of Jesus’s path to the cross, and what has happened since then and how the news still affects people today is equally wonderful - a story not yet finished.

The words of this song first appeared in “Treasures Old and New” (1989), with the suggested tune OPEN MY EYES by Clara Scott, an accomplished 19th century American lyricist and musician. Gill Berry later composed a new setting, OUT ON THE HILLS, which was entered for Premier Christian Radio’s carol competition in November 1997. It was sung by Helen King, accompanied on the piano by Vivien Hircock. The successful recording (judged as runner-up) was broadcast several times - particularly in memory of Viv who sadly died of meningitis before the result had been announced.   Sheet music and other resources are at Praise! No.1063.