ON THIS DAY, THE FIRST OF DAYS

A HYMN FOR THE 16th SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

1 On this day, the first of days,
God our Maker's name we praise;
Who, creation’s Lord and Spring
Did the world from darkness bring.

2 On this day the eternal Son
Over death his triumph won;
On this day the Spirit came
With its gifts of living flame.

3 Word-made-flesh, all praises be!
You from sin have set us free;
And with you we die and rise
Unto God in sacrifice.

4 Holy Spirit, you impart
Gifts of love to every heart;
Give us light and grace, we pray,
Fill our hearts this holy day.

5 God, the blessed Three in One,
May your holy will be done;
In your word our souls are free,
As we praise the Trinity.

From the Latin of the Le Mans Breviary, 1748, translated by H.W. Baker, 1861