After I posted the explanation of the actual meaning of the lyrics of “God Rest (Make) Ye Merry (Mighty), Gentlemen” last year, a reader emailed to point out the etymology of the word “comfort”, as in “tidings of comfort and joy”…

Com: with

Fort: strength

Here is the medley of God Make Ye Mighty, Gentlemen with We Three Kings.

Tidings of Strength and Joy, Mighty Men, on this Great Feast of the Manifestation of Our Lord: King and God and Sacrifice!