Growing up , my Dad would always raise a toast to some German guy on Christmas Eve , and then had to wipe a tear away . Eventually , curiosity caused me to ask who this fellow was . He told me , during the Battle of the Bulge , he had killed a German soldier on Christmas Eve and going through his uniform , had discovered his name , age , some photographs etc , and broke down and wept and promised this soldier he would always remember the tragic circumstances that led him in taking his life . Every Christmas , he upheld that promise and that honor has passed on to me . Over 70 years ago , and my family still remembers that young 18 year old German soldier that died for his country so far away from his home . Will we ever find a time when ‘ war ‘ isn’t in our vocabulary ? God help us .

This version gave me chills. "God is not dead, nor doth He sleep."

I'd heard the story before

I was reading my Scripture this morning and it was the awesome declaration by the angels of the coming of the Savior of men. I asked the Lord, "Lord, am I supposed to keep declaring this to my fellow man in the light of all the terrible things that we see unfolding all around us?" In my spirit I was prompted, "As long as the door of salvation is not closed, this must be proclaimed to men, women and children." "Peace on earth, good will to men." Amen...let it be so Lord! Merry Christmas everybody!

I think we all need this song, especially this year (2020)! Praise God for His glory!

I played this at the close of service yesterday 12/25/22. When Jesus was born I believe there was peace on earth in that moment of time. He is coming again and He will usher in true everlasting peace. To God be the glory forever.

THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS SONGS I HAVE EVER HEARD. 💝💝💝💝💝💝

As a 23 year old infantry platoon leader in Vietnam, I spent Christmas eve on an ambush and Christmas on patrol miles away from the nearest LZ or base. A Huey flew off in the distance playing Christmas carols. Years later during the Christmas holidays, I lost a Soldier in Iraq and flew her home to American Samoa for the celebration of her short life and for her to be laid to rest. This song and the Civil War photos are a reminder of these events and that wars started not by armies, but by heads of governments. Yet it is our military members and their selfless service that are asked to fight and die in hopes of everlasting peace. Peace on Earth, when will it come?

There are many renditions of this carol recorded here on KZfaq, but I believe this one is the most moving. Especially with the narration at the beginning. May God bless you for posting this, and may Longfellow's memory be a blessing to all that hear this.

I didn't know that Henry W. Longfellow wrote this beautiful carol. I love him as a poet and now a songwriter! I bought a book of his poetry dating back to the 1864-1893's. What a treasure it is!

I never knew the history of this song, and this video struck me being a war veteran

This is a lovely, deeply moving version of the song. The introduction and the Civil War background are a remarkable reminder of what earlier generations did for our country.

What a beautiful song. Awesome. God is not dead nor does He sleep.

My favorite! Loved this version.

I like the way this group performs this song. The commentary at the beginning is also very illuminating.

HALLELUJAH!!! for Faith!!! Praise the name of the LORD who gives and takes away!!! Thank you for the video.

On earth we have tribulation, but in Jesus we find peace.

Beautiful arrangement and performance - thank you for sharing.

This song and its sentiment NEVER ever grow old! The lyrics and music have more meaning to so many with each passing year. Personally, it makes me long for our Lord's second coming.....the only way there will ever be PEACE ON EARTH. Thank you for this beautiful rendition with the Civil War photos. It has even more meaning to me.....God Bless

The angels declared, Peace on earth to men of GOOD WILL.

My favorite arrangement of this song!

My children's choir, adult choir and orchestra will be performing this song again this year with a video taped message prior to the music starting. It's not too difficult to learn and with the kids choir, it really brings the song alive. Very few dry eyes in last year's concert and we're repeating this song by demand this year as well.

*I heard the bells on Christmas day* Their old familiar carols play And mild and sweetest songs repeat Of peace on earth good will to men And the bells are ringing (Peace on Earth) Like a choir they're singing (Peace on Earth) In my heart I hear them Peace on earth, good will to men And in despair I bowed my head “There is no peace on earth”, I said For hate is strong and mocks the song Of peace on earth, good will to men But the bells are ringing (Peace on Earth) Like a choir singing (Peace on Earth) Does anybody hear them? Peace on earth, good will to men Then rang the bells more loud and deep *God is NOT dead, nor doth He sleep* (Peace on Earth, peace on Earth) *The wrong SHALL fail, the right - prevail* With peace on earth, good will to men Then ringing singing on its way The world revolved from night to day A voice, a chime, a chant sublime Of peace on earth, good will to men And the bells are ringing (Peace on Earth) Like a choir they're singing (Peace on Earth) And with our hearts we'll hear them Peace on earth, good will to men Do you hear the bells are ringing? (Peace on Earth) The life the angels singing (Peace on Earth) Open up your heart and hear them (Peace on Earth) Peace on earth, good will to men *Peace on earth, Peace on earth* *Peace on earth, Good will to men*

Very well made! I like how your video captures both the darkness of war and then the coming of peace through the arrival of the Prince of Peace!

NOTHING ELSE MATTERS IN LIFE IF YOU DONT PUT GOD IN YOUR HEART GOD THE BEST OF THE BEST HES THE ULTIMATE HERO

Oh my! This song and the movie HAVE BECOME MY FAVORITE.

I think this song will be very useful during the times of 2021 and 2022 here in today's America...

I first heard this song when a friend (a pastor) posted it on social media today. It was at the end of the story of how the poem came to be written by Henry W. Longfellow. It came from The Gospel Coalition. I had never heard this poem to this melody, as I was familiar with it using another (similar) melody. I was astounded by the beauty of both the story and the music. Also, the narration at the beginning of the video is very professionally done, and you have a wonderful sounding voice that commands attention. I see that you have offered a link to the music below, and I commend you for that. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for putting up this inspiring video. I really needed to hear something like this today.

"I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" was originally written as a poem in 1864 called “Christmas” Bells by American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem was penned on Christmas Day in 1864. He was inspired by the fact that his son had joined up in the American Civil War WITHOUT his, father’s, permission. His son was severely wounded in a battle in Virginia, and this was coupled with the recent loss of his wife in a fire. In 1872 this poem was first set to music by an English organist, John Baptiste Calkin. He used a processional that had been used as early as 1848, which we now know as one of the tunes to this holiday classic. In the 50’s Johnny Cash and Elvis made the Calkin version very popular. However, in the 50’s another well known Christian song writer, Johnny Marks, author of the “Red Nosed Reindeer”, set “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” to another arrangement which was recorded by singers like Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby. Mark’s version of the song has become the most popular version, and the version that you would probably recognize today.

This song and the story behind it really moved me. I wonder how many Americans are aware of the main reason of which so many thousands of soldiers lost their life in the civil war!? What I have seen lately happening in USA shows no respect for the brave soldiers who fought in that war. Not encouraging at all… Merry Christmas!

Sooooooo ein schönes Lied mit dem besten Appell, den es geben kann. :)

Thank you for this. I pray for true peace on earth, and goodwill for all. First heard this several years ago and it is as beautiful a thought and ambition as when Longfellow penned it.

Thank you for the story behind the song. I should have known about this as a student of American literature. I have a new respect for Mr. Longfellow. I have been deeply moved by this version of the poem set to music.

Scripture says that peace will only come with the advent of Heaven. Amidst all the suffering we may find the Grace we seek.

Beautiful. I love the background history of this song Wonderful job done of the background photos. Thank you. I love this song

So meaningful this year

Wow! This is so powerful and beautiful!!

And so is life, beautiful things come from unbearable tragedy, thanks to our wonderful God 🙌🏼

Most heart touching song I have ever heard From the heart of a broken man

Secret of History WIsdom A beutiful Music Video "I heard the Bells on Chrismas Day (Civil War Background). Thank you. If we could read the secret history of our enemies we should find in each man's life sorrow and suffering enough to disarm all hostility. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

I have nev er been a real christmas kind of person, but this song has always been a favorite. Nice knowing the history behind it.

"Peace on earth, goodwill to men"😇👼🙏🕊

Absolutely wonderful and very touching. Thanks for sharing!

most beautiful thing i have ever heard

Thank You tut o all of the military personnel who have served and who are still serving in our Nation's military. It takes a special breed to have the courage to sign your life over to our government and do what they ask you to do. May God Bless and keep each and everyone of you, May He shine His face upon you, and may He be Gracious to you. Lord turn His face towards you and give you Peace. From The Blessing by Kari Jobe and Cody Karns. We love all of y'all

This is really a beautiful version, but it like most versions leave out my favorite two verses, which really talk about the civil war

It’s the poem that makes me cry, the words maybe but mostly the hurt passion behind the writing.

Hi everyone. This arrangement is by Dave Williamson for Word Music. To purchase, check out this link: wordmusic.com/i-heard-the-bells-on-christmas-day-1.html

Too many feels. 😖😭😩 Awesome work!😍

I first heard this song on a Hallmark movie and fell in Love with it, it wasn’t until I saw and heard this story behind it that has made me appreciate it even more❤🙏🙏🇺🇸

I just stumbled into your post. 12/22/22. Thankyou for the blessing . Peace comes when Christ returns.

it is an exceptional poem. brings me to tears every single time i hear it. i will not diminish anyone who sings this perfect song, but i will tell you that Casting Crowns does a great job at singing it

I never knew he wrote this,nor that it had such a heartbreaking creation. Thank you for this.It is so beautiful.Made me cry.

I seeing this last year in my living Christmas tree it speek out truth in depth into the poem itself into a most beautiful

Charles Longfellow was wounded during the Mine Run Campaign near a small Virginia settlement named New Hope Church. This happened in November 1863. This is not to be confused with the better known Battle of New Hope Church which took place in Georgia in May 1864.

I love music video I heard the bells on christmas day '(civil war background ).Thank you so much .God bless you.

New Hope Church - appropriate venue for Longfellow to write his poem, waiting for new hope while his son was gradually recovering from his wounds.

I want to sing this song in a choir like this! What a moving song!

Thank you for this! Such a very timely sentiment

I will never leave you or forsake you says the Lord. He is not done with this great country yet just like He wasn’t done with it back in 1865. Please God bless America!

I heard the bells on Christmas day Their old familiar carols play And mild and sweet their songs repeat Of peace on earth good will to men And the bells are ringing (peace on earth) Like a choir they're singing (peace on earth) In my heart I hear them (peace on earth) Peace on earth, good will to men And in despair I bowed my head There is no peace on earth I said For hate is strong and mocks the song Of peace on earth, good will to men But the bells are ringing (peace on earth) Like a choir singing (peace on earth) Does anybody hear them? (peace on earth) Peace on earth, good will to men Then rang the bells more loud and deep God is not dead, nor does he sleep (peace on earth, peace on earth) The wrong shall fail, the right prevail With peace on earth, goodwill to man Till, ringing, singing, on its way, The world revolved from night to day, A voice, a chime, a chant sublime, Of peace on earth, good will to men! And the bells are ringing (peace on earth) Like a choir they're singing (peace on earth) In my heart I hear them (peace on earth) Peace on earth, good will to men Do you hear the bells they are ringing (peace on earth) Like the angels singing (peace on earth) Open up your heart and give Him (peace on earth) Goodwill to man . Peace on earth . Peace on earth . Peace on earth Goodwill to man . God bless you all . If you want to know more about the peace that passes all understanding from God , you can attend this online church and talk to the pastors kingdomcity.com/

Well done! I put a QR code link to this on all my Christmas cards and outside our house. 🎄

AMAZING CHIOR!!! I would love to buy this rendition of this song. who sings this? Yes, God is NOT DEAD! He is risen and coming back again and soon! Thanks for posting!

I love your prologue. Your voice has a beautiful tone for narration. Our choir is singing this at our Christmas concert for the second year in a row and this year I would love to have one of our students read your prologue over the intro. We are a large community choir that combines a high school choir of about 80 students aged 14-19 and an adult community choir of 60 with ages ranging from 20-80. Could you give us permission to use your wonderful words to help put the piece in context? With so much trouble in the world today the message is just as relevant and important. Peace on Earth.

The historical intro was very good but the singing group abbreviated and distorted a beautiful poem and hymn.

What a magnificent piece of lyrics to this song

There seems to be a misunderstanding about this piece. The person who writes the lyrics is not always the person who writes the music. In this case, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow did write the text and the context for writing it is true. The music was written much more recently by someone other than Henry, who left this planet quite awhile ago.

It is not "peace on earth, good will to men" but rather, "peace on earth, to men of good will." The difference could not be more important. Those who wish or do evil are men but there can never be peace with them or for them. Thus, the passage clearly means there will be peace only to those of good will.

Wonderful video!

Realistic description of war.

The words "peace on earth", are never more welcome than to hearts that are weary of war. During the long dark years of the Civil War, there were millions of weary hearts in America that were anxiously looking for the dawn of peace. In 1863, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow fave expression to the despair and the hope of these millions in his poem, Christmas Bells. The great american poet had a very intimate experience with the horror of war. He had felt the gloom of is darkest hours. His young son, a lieutenant in the army of the Potomac, had been seriously wounded in battle. Several entries in his journal make reference to the war and his hope that it might a speedy end. I Heard the Bells first appeared under the name, Christmas Bells,in a small collection of poems entitled, Flower de Luce, published in 1867. In its original form the poem contained two versed referring to the Civil War, which explain the poet's expression that "hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth,good will to men". The melody, which makes it possible for us to include Longfellow among our Christmas hymn writers, was composed by J. Baptiste Calkin, Popular London organist, in 1872. Written by: Henry W. Longfellow, 1863 Composed by: J. Baptiste Calkin, 1872 Peace on Earth Good Will To Men!! Lynnae Larson

Now there’s a movie “I Heard the Bells” 2022.

This is so sad. Interesting part of history.

Love, love this

Beautiful

Dec 19, 2019 On my feed. Day after fake impeachment.... Feeling nudged into civil war by someone....

I am watching the movie now, the scene of his wife's death is very sad. It is too bad they did not know about " Stop, drop, and roll back then if you catch on fire. I never heard the carol before, very pretty.

Darn it I'm sick of hearing an arrangement I absolutely fall in love with and not being able to find out what it's called.

great video

wonderful video!

Lord of all please let peace and quiet come back to this country. We need your help. Protect your people and bless America. Amazing Grace how sweet the sound.

Beautiful. With meaning

Very Touching God Hold The Soldiers in Your Hands 💖

I heard the bells on Christmas Day Text: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1863. See Luke 2:14. Music: “Waltham” by Jean Baptiste Calkin, 1872 (Two civil war specific verses and a chorus added recently are omitted.)

Wonderful!!!

Makes me cry to read all these, to know what evil leaders have inposed on their citizens. But we shall have peace when we behold our Lord.

@Lisa Earl: It's by Shepherd Nazarene, on the album "Shepherd Christmas Coffee Cafe: A Cup of Good Cheer".

This makes me cry wow. Not much can.

Thank you for sharing the background story! Who is the artist please? This version is so beautiful!

Hi there, may I know which artist sang this version of "I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day" that used for this video?

i love this song

I have found the exact music and orchestration for use in my next Christmas Concert I conduct each year in my city. I am SO TOUCHED in this video and will duplicate the idea along with photos on the screen. So to let you know, I am a history buff for the Civil War AND conduct a 70 piece orchestra with a 150 voice choir each year. Next year we plan on doubling our choir and if this song doesn't bring tears to everyone who attends, than we obviously haven't done our job you have. Thank YOU for the idea! What a great message. FYI - the ending with just a few voices, I might have the choir as a whole sing that rather than a small group, what do you think?

Ironic that Longfellow's son should have been injured/wounded in a Civil War battle located at a church named "New Hope"! Life is full of ironies/surprises! Just when all hope seems to be gone....

I would like the story behind the song and WITHOUT the Casting Crowns version - the original version with the music by J. Baptiste Calkin!!!

Sorry I haven't answered your question, SM Harlan. This is a choir arrangement by Dave Williamson from Word Music. The choir singing is actually the demonstration track from Word. We did this a few years ago at our church, and I created the video with the narration to synch with our live performance. Had to lengthen the intro to handle the narration. As matt11lz pointed out, it's based on a Casting Crowns song (based on the Christmas carol...).

The title should have informed us that the tune used is not the traditional tune - I'll keep searching. I'm sure it is a lovely tune.

powerful

I have no idea how many times I have listened to this over the past 3 years. So rich and beautiful. The quiet resolve that “God is not dead nor does He sleep” has brought me through one of the darkest seasons in my life. Also love the narrators calm voice - anyone know who it is??

Copyright seems to lie with "Club Zoo Music/SWECS Music/My Refuge Music (BMI)/ Travellin' Zoo Music - all rights admin. by EMI CMG Publishing/Banahama Music / World Music, LLC " according to the copy I have for the CLIC Sergent concert in Edinburgh's Usher Hall tomorrow (16th Dec. 2015)

39 haters don't want peace on earth