The seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God.
Exodus 20:10
Words: Unknown author, in the Elucidatorium Ecclesiasticum of Jodocus Clichtovaeus (Josse Clichtove, 1472–1543) (Paris: 1516) (Omnes una celebremus). Translated from Latin to English by Henrietta M. Chester in the Hymnary, 1872.
Music: Holy Day (Parker) H. W. Parker, in The Church Hymnal (Boston, Massachusetts: Parish Choir, 1911), number 26 (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tune:
If you know Parker’s full name, or where to get a good photo of him or Chester (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Come, let us all with one accord
Adore and magnify the Lord,
And festive service pay.
On this the day that God hath blest,
The day of peace and heavenly rest,
The Lord’s own holy day.
That saw primeval darkness break,
And that more glorious life awake
That lasteth evermore.
That saw hell’s legions prostrate fall,
And Christ, triumphant over all,
His own to Heaven restore.
This day the peace that flows from Heaven
Was unto the apostles given,
When doors were closed at night.
This day the Holy Spirit’s flame
Upon the Church’s teachers came,
And filled their souls with light.
Still on this day with trumpet sound
The Gospel notes were ringing round,
To call the world to pray.
Then on this day let us adore
Our God and supplication pour,
That, when worlds pass away,
Through Christ’s dear grace our souls may rest
In peace and joy, forever blest,
Till the great judgment day.