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Words: Attributed to Ambrose of Milan, 4th Century (Aeterna Christi munera); translated from Latin to English by John Mason Neale in the Hymnal Noted, 1854.
Music: "Aeterna Christi Munera," melody from Guidetti's Directorium Chori, 1582; harmonized in The English Hymnal (London: Oxford University Press, 1906)
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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.
The Church in these her princes boasts,
These victor chiefs of warriors hosts;
The soldiers of the heavenly hall,
The lights that rose on earth for all.
'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.
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.
Redeemer, hear us of Thy love,
That, with this glorious band above,
Hereafter, of Thine endless grace,
Thy servants also may have place.
Hymns supplied through the gracious generosity of the Cyber Hymnal Website