O GLADSOME LIGHT
"I am the light of the world." John 8:12
Words: Unknown, 3rd Century; translated from Greek to English by Robert
Seymour Bridges, 1899. This translation first appeared in Bridges'
Yattendon Hymnal (named after his parish in Yattendon, Berkshire,
England).
Music: "Le Cantique de Siméon," Louis Bourgeois, 1547; harmony by
Claude Goudimel, 1551.
O gladsome light, O grace of our Creator's face,
The eternal splendor wearing; celestial, holy blessed,
Our Savior Jesus Christ, joyful in Your appearing!
As fades the day's last light we see the lamps of night,
Our common hymn outpouring, O God of might unknown,
You, the incarnate Son, and Spirit blessed adoring.
To You of right belongs all praise of holy songs,
O Son of God, life giver. You, therefore, O Most High,
The world does glorify and shall exalt forever.