Ancient and Modern ‎#320

320. The great forerunner of the morn

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 heavenly message Gabriel came,
that John should be that herald's name,
and with prophetic utterance 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.

4 To God the Father, God the Son,
and God the Spirit, Three in One,
praise, honour, might, and glory be
from age to age eternally.

Text Information

• First Line: The great forerunner of the morn
• Translator: John Mason Neale (1818-1866) (alt.)
• Author: The Venerable Bede (673-735)
• Meter: LM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2013
• Scripture:
  Matthew 11:7-11
  ;
  Luke 1:8-17
  ;
  John 1:1-9
• Topic: John the Baptist; Other Saints and Festivals: The Birth of John the Baptist; Prophets; Saints: St John Baptist; The Baptism of Christ: Year B

Tune Information

• Name: VOM HIMMEL HOCH
• Harmonizer: Hans Leo Hassler (1564-1612) (alt.)
• Meter: LM
• Key: C Major
• Source: Melody from Schumann's Geistliche Lieder, 1539