The eternal gifts of Christ the King

The eternal gifts of Christ the King,
the apostles' glory, let us sing,
and all, with hearts of gladness, raise
due hymns of thankful love and praise.

For they the Church's princes are,
triumphant leaders in the war,
in heavenly courts a warrior band,
true lights to lighten every land.

Theirs is the steadfast faith of saints,
and hope that never yields nor faints;
and love of Christ in perfect glow
that lays the prince of this world low.

In them the Father's glory shone,
in them the will of God the Son,
in them exults the Holy Ghost,
through them rejoice the heavenly host.

To thee, Redeemer, now we cry,
that thou wouldst join to them on high
thy servants, who this grace implore,
for ever and for evermore.

Words: Ambrose of Milan (340-397);
trans. John Mason Neale, 1851

Music: Illsley (Bishop), Aeterna Christi Munera, Church Triumphant , Gonfalon Royal, Guidetti, Jesu, nostra redemptio

Meter: LM

Website compiled by Steve Benner, 1999-2003.