Today’s hymn is a translation of the 6th century Latin hymn, “Christus Redemptor Omnium” written by St. Columba (521-597). He was born in Ireland and as a young man he took Holy Orders. In 563, travelling to Iona which is off the coast of Scotland, with 12 companions he converted the northern Picts to Christianity and established the Iona Abbey, a monastery that became a focal point of spirituality and learning1. The below version is a modern rendition of the hymn by one of my new favourite groups; enjoy!
Meter: 7.6.7.6 D
Christ is the world’s redeemer,
the lover of the pure,
the fount of heavenly wisdom,
our trust and hope secure,
the armour of his soldiers,
the lord of earth and sky,
our health while we are living,
our life when we shall die.
Christ has our host surrounded
with clouds of martyrs bright
who wave their palms in triumph
and fire us for the fight.
For Christ the cross ascended
to save a world undone
and, suffering for the sinful,
our full redemption won.
Down in the realm of darkness
he lay a captive bound,
but at the hour appointed
he rose, a victor crowned,
and now, to heaven ascended,
he sits upon the throne
in glorious dominion,
his Father’s and his own.
Glory to God the Father,
the unbegotten One;
all honour be to Jesus,
his sole-begotten Son;
and to the Holy Spirit —
the perfect Trinity.
Let all the worlds give answer:
‘Amen, so let it be’.
1kpshaw.blogspot.com/2013/11/p389.html