Also known as JENA, DAS NEUGEBORNE KINDELEIN was originally a chorale melody for Cyriacus Schneegass' text "Das neugeborne Kindelein." Composed by Melchior Vulpius (PHH 397) and published in his Ein Schön Geistlich Gesangbuch (Jena, 1609), the tune was introduced to English congregations primarily because of its inclusion in George R. Woodward's (PHH 403) Cowley Carol Book (1901 ed.). The harmony is simplified from a setting by Johann S. Bach (PHH 7) in his Cantata 122.

DAS NEUGEBORNE KINDELEIN is a beautiful carol tune that allows contemplation of this vibrant text on the Spirit's work. Sing stanza 1 in unison and stanzas 2-5 in parts, possibly with some antiphonal singing. Return to unison singing for stanza 6 with strong accompaniment. Use lighter accompaniment on stanzas 1-5; maintain one pulse per bar. Note how stanza 5 propels into stanza 6!

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook