A lot of fakelore on this song. It is Not pre-Christian. Music composed by Mykola Leontovich, 1877-1921, but partly based on the traditional Ukrainian New Year's Eve song, "Shchedry Vechir."
Leontovich is known primarily for his choral works, and his unfinished opera, "On Rusalka's Easter."

Lyrics of the popular American carol (Hark how the bells, Sweet silver bells, All seem to say, Throw cares away), copyright 1936, was composed by Peter J. Wilhousky, American choral director, composer and educator (1902-1978). he also is known for his band arrangement of "Battle Hymn of the Republic."