The New English Hymnal ‎#61

61. O Christ, who art the Light and Day

1 O Christ, who art the Light and Day,
Thou drivest darksome night away!
We know thee as the Light of light
Illuminating mortal sight.

2 All-holy Lord, we pray to thee,
Keep us to-night from danger free;
Grant us, dear Lord, in thee to rest,
So be our sleep in quiet blest.

3 And while the eyes soft slumber take,
Still be the heart to thee awake;
Be thy right hand upheld above
Thy servants resting in thy love.

4 O strong defender, be thou nigh
To bid the powers of darkness fly;
Keep us from sin, and guide for good
Thy servants purchased by thy blood.

5 Remember us, dear Lord, we pray
While in this mortal flesh we stay:
’Tis Thou who dost the soul defend--
Be present with us to the end.

6 Blest Three in One and One in Three,
Almighty God, we pray to thee
That thou wouldst now vouchsafe to bless
Our fast with fruits of righteousness. Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: O Christ, who art the Light and Day
• Latin Title: Christe qui lux es et dies
• Translator: William Copeland, 1804-85
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1986
• Topic: The Christian Year: Lent; Office Hymn: Compline
• Source: 6th century Latin
• Notes: Other translators also; Alternative tune MELCOMBE 238

Tune Information

• Name: CHRISTE QUI LUX
• Key: G Major or modal
• Copyright: Arr. by permission of Oxford University Press (from "English Hymnal," 1933)