United Methodists celebrate 200th year of "Silent Night"

At Christmas, numerous churches turn to United Methodist Hymnal #239 to sing "Silent Night, Holy Night." For many, it is a staple of the holiday season that often is paired with a candlelight service.

Christmas Eve 2018 marks the 200th anniversary of the first performance of the beloved carol.

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Written by Joseph Mohr and composed by Franz Gruber, the song made its debut during a midnight service at St. Nicholas Church in Oberndorf, Austria (then a village in the Austrian Empire).

This video features a variety of United Methodist choir members marking this milestone in song, raising their voices in worship to Christ the Savior.

Learn more about music and The United Methodist Church

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