Gentle Readers,
Not much to add.
Almost a sacrilege to mention that if you cannot see the video you should look here.
I believe that Franz Schubert composed the music around 1825 and that, originally, the lyrics came from Lady of the Lake. The Latin, Ave Maria, was superimposed later.
You don't have to be Catholic to appreciate the lyrics or the haunting beauty of Karen's song stylings.
May your Christmas be blessed.
TWC