213a. The eternal gifts of Christ the King

1 The eternal gifts of Christ the King,
The Apostles’ glorious deeds, we sing;
And while due hymns of praise we pay,
Our thankful hearts cast grief away.

2 The Church in these her princes boasts,
These victor chiefs of warrior hosts;
The soldiers of the heavenly hall,
The lights that rose on earth for all.

3 ’Twas thus the yearning faith of saints,
The unconquered hope that never faints,
The love of Christ that knows not shame,
The prince of this world overcame.

4 In these the Father’s glory shone;
In these the will of God the Son;
In these exults the Holy Ghost;
Through these rejoice the heavenly host.

5 Redeemer, hear us of thy love,
That, with this glorious band above,
Hereafter, of thine endless grace,
Thy servants also may have place. Amen.

Text Information
First Line: The eternal gifts of Christ the King
Latin Title: Aeterna Christi munera
Author (attributed to): St Ambrose, c. 340-97
Translator: J. M. Neale, 1818-66
Language: English
Publication Date: 1986
Topic: The Christian Year: Festivals and Other Holidays: General; Apostles and Evangelists; Office Hymn
Tune Information
Name: AETERNA CHRISTI MUNERA
Key: a minor
Copyright: Arr. by permission of Oxford University Press (from "English Hymnal," 1933)



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