Hark! the Sound of Holy Voices (EN 5968)

1

Hark! the sound of holy voices, chanting at the crystal sea,

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! Lord, to Thee;

Multitude, which none can number, like the stars in glory stand

Clothed in white apparel, holding palms of victory in their hand.

2

Patriarch, and holy prophet, who prepared the way of Christ

King, apostle, saint, confessor, martyr and evangelist;

Saintly maiden, godly matron, widows who have watched to prayer

Joined in holy concert, singing to the Lord of all, are there.

3

They have come from tribulation, and have washed their robes in blood,

Washed them in the blood of Jesus; tried they were, and firm they stood;

Mocked, imprisoned, stoned, tormented, sawn asunder, slain with sword;

They have conquered death and Satan by the might of Christ the Lord.

4

Marching with Thy cross their banner, they have triumphed, following

Thee, the Captain of salvation, Thee, their Savior and their King;

Gladly, Lord, with Thee they suffered; gladly, Lord, with Thee they died;

And by death to life immortal they were born and glorified.

5

Now they reign in heav’nly glory, now they walk in golden light,

Now they drink, as from a river, holy bliss and infinite:

Love and peace they taste forever, and all truth and knowledge see

In the beatific vision of the blessed Trinity.

6

God of God, the One begotten, Light of light, Emmanuel,

In Whose body joined together all the saints forever dwell;

Pour upon us of Thy fullness that we may forevermore

God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost adore.