Beautiful Star of Bethleham

(Verse 1)
O beautiful star of Bethlehem,
Shining afar through shadows dim,
Giving the light to those who long have gone,
Leading the wise men on their way,
Into the land of perfect day.
Beautiful star of Bethlehem,
Shine on.

(Chorus)
Beautiful star of Bethlehem,
Shine upon us until the glory dawns.
Give us a lamp to light the way,
Into the land of perfect day.
Beautiful star of Bethlehem,
Shine on.  

(Verse 2)
O beautiful star, the hope of rest,
For the redeemed, the pure and blessed.
Yonder in glory when the crown is won,
For Jesus is now the star divine,
Brighter and brighter He will shine.
Beautiful star of Bethlehem,
Shine on.  

(Chorus)
Beautiful star of Bethlehem,
Shine upon us until the glory dawns.
Give us a lamp to light the way,
Into the land of perfect day.
Beautiful star of Bethlehem,
Shine on.

The winter solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year. In the Northern Hemisphere, it typically falls on December 21 or 22. This astronomical event marks the beginning of winter, as the sun reaches its lowest point in the sky.

Historically, the winter solstice has been celebrated by various cultures around the world for thousands of years.

 Ancient civilizations recognized its significance and often held festivals and rituals to honor the sun and welcome the return of longer days. These celebrations often involved bonfires, feasting, and other symbolic acts to ward off darkness and ensure the sun's return.

In many cultures, the winter solstice is associated with rebirth, renewal, and hope.
 It symbolizes the end of one cycle and the beginning of another, offering a time for reflection, gratitude, and looking forward to the promise of spring.