1 The great forerunner of the morn,
The herald of the Word, is born;
And faithful hearts shall never fail
With thanks and praise his light to hail.

2 With heav'nly message Gabriel came,
That John should be that herald's name,
And with prophetic utt'rance told
His actions great and manifold.

3 His mighty deeds exalt his fame
To greater than a prophet's name;
Of woman-born shall never be
A greater prophet than was he.