The Song of the Angels

When the Bible was translated into Latin, “Gloria in excelsis Deo” were the first words of the song that the angels sang to the shepherds at Jesus’ birth. We sing those words in English in our liturgy: “Glory be to God on high.” The Song of the Angels is a compact, joyful proclamation of God’s glory, mercy, and salvation, centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ.

The “Gloria” is simply praise to God the Father, acknowledging his glory and peace given to those favored by his grace. It has in mind that Christ, God’s only Son, will take away the sin of the world.

In Lutheran theology, the “Gloria” is a response of faith to God’s saving work, rejoicing in justification by grace through faith. It is not just praise but proclamation: Christ has come, and in him, we have peace with God.