This
hymn is a translation by
John Cosin (
1627) of the Latin
sequentia Veni Sancte Spiritus. It is traditionally sung to the
plainsong melody originally devised for the
Latin text, but may also be sung to
Veni Creator by
John B Dykes. In any case, the odd final verse requires special settings. I used to sing this hymn every year at school, at the first
assembly after
Pentecost. Remarkably, I still like it, despite that.
Come, Holy Ghost, our souls inspire,
And lighten with celestial fire.
Thou the anointing Spirit art,
Who dost thy sevenfold gifts impart.
Thy blessèd unction from above
Is comfort, life, and fire of love.
Enable with perpetual light
The dullness of our blinded sight.
Anoint and cheer our soilèd face
With the abundance of thy grace.
Keep far from foes, give peace at home:
Where thou art guide, no ill can come.
Teach us to know the Father, Son,
And thee, of both, to be but One,
That through the ages all along,
This may be our endless song:
Praise to thy eternal merit,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Everything Hymnal