The lyric “O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant” opens the English version of “O Come, All Ye Faithful.”
The carol is commonly associated with the Latin hymn “Adeste Fideles.” John Francis Wade is traditionally credited with the text and music, although the hymn’s exact authorship has been debated.
The English translation was made by Frederick Oakeley in the 19th century. It became especially prominent in Anglican and Catholic worship and is now sung internationally during Christmas.
The Latin title remains familiar in church music, while the English opening is the version most often known by general audiences.