A Light of Hopefor Chicago
History of Silent Night
Among the songs of Christmas, few stand out as representing the peace and goodwill of the holiday season like Silent Night. Moving stories of both its composition and its instrumental use in the Christmas Truce of 1914 during World War I demonstrate its lasting appeal to us today. On Christmas Eve in 1914, as the song drifted across the battle-scarred field and trenches, the soldiers rediscovered their humanity, and for one night peace on earth and goodwill towards men took center stage. Today, Silent Night is the most widely known and recognizable Christmas song.
This Christmas Eve in Chicago, we hope to experience a similar Silent Night moment, as we all lay aside our differences, rediscover our humanity, and let peace on earth and goodwill towards all reign.