Phos Hilaron
English: Hail, Gladdening Light
Sample Score Video
Text traditional, 3rd Century
This is the oldest surviving extra-biblical song we have from the early church, dating to around the 3rd Century AD. A liturgical text, it was traditionally sung at the 6 pm prayer service, during the lighting of the lamps. This choral setting was written for inclusion on my latest album, Evensong, but it was ultimately cut. If your ensemble would like to perform this piece, it would be a world premiere - as the piece has never been performed live.
Hail, gladdening light of His pure glory poured
Who is the Immortal Father, heavenly blessed
Holiest of Holies, Jesus Christ our Lord
Now we’ve come to the Son’s hour of rest
Lights of evening ‘round us shine
We hymn the Father, Son, Spirit divine
Worthiest art Thou at all times to be sung
With an undefiled tongue!
Son of our God, giver of life alone
Therefore in all the earth, Thy glories Lord, Thy own