BETHLEHEM CENSUS

Here’s a different take on “Once in Royal David’s City”.

Some of the rhymes will make more sense if you know that I speak with a modified East London accent.

Words verse 1      C F ALEXANDER                                                     Tune H J GAUNTLETT

verses 2-8             R A J FORD

‘…Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire.’

1	Once in Royal David’s city Stood a lowly cattle shed. Where a mother laid her baby In a manger for his bed. Mary was that mother mild, Jesus Christ her little child.
2	Let’s suppose a census-taker Knocked upon the stable door. Peeked inside and saw the baby Peaceful on his bed of straw. “Come on in.” said Joe, “Get warm. Then we’ll all fill in your form.”
3	Came the census-taker’s warning, ”Tell the truth in all you say. Those who hide from wild King Herod Find there will be hell to pay.” Joseph must suppress his fear. Time of reckoning is near.
4	“Who’s the child?” “That’s our boy Jesus.” “Oldest adult?” “Joe.” he said. “Who’s the mother?” “Me.” said Mary, Rising from her make-shift bed. Easy question: Who’s the mum? Who’s the father? Still to come.	8
5	“Please confirm the boy-child’s father.” Joe and Mary looked perplexed. Said the kindly census-taker, “This is what we could do next. Fine by me, if fine by you. Oldest adult; father too.”
6	Steadfast, brave and thoughtful Joseph In the role of Jesus’ dad. Dodging wild King Herod’s soldiers As he cared for Mary’s lad. Though he gets a minor part, Joe was vital at the start.
7	Grown-up Jesus, by example, Showed us how we all might live. Selfless loving, feed the hungry, Aid the weary, and forgive. Help your neighbour take the load. Hard but life-affirming road.
8	Tales of Jesus’ wondrous childhood Handed on from age to age. Fresh to each new generation As each year we turn the page. Wondrous story all can tell. Sing with joy “Noel! Noel!”