AUDI NOS, REX CHRISTE

Given in editions of the Paris Breviary subsequent to 1736, along with the hymn Coelestis O Jerusalem, for the vigil of All Saints Day at Lauds. Author not traced.

I
II
III
IV
V
Christian soldiers in the conflict!
Bear the banner of the cross;
Rich reward shall crown the victor,
More than recompense for loss.
Not with paltry palms that wither
Shall the brow be gaily crowned,
But with light that shines eternal,
And with heavenly joy renowned.
Yours are mansions fair and comely--
There your souls in bliss shall rest;
Stars shall sparkle in their radiance,
On the pathway of the blest.
Earthly joys are faint and fleeting,
Earthly favours quickly fade;
Heavenwards lift your eyes, expecting
There your true reward is laid.
God be praised who crowns the victor,
Christ be praised who saves from sin;
Equal praise to God the Spirit,
By whose aid we fight and win.

This pilgrim or processional hymn was first published from a MS. of the eleventh century by Du Mévil at Paris, 1847; reprinted by Neale in his Hymni Ecclesiæ, in 1851, as Cantus Peregrinatorum.

I
Refrain
II
III
IV
V
VI
VII
Hear us, O Christ, our King;
Lord, hear the prayer we bring,
And take the ordering of our way.
Thy mercy, Lord, extend;
Thy mercy, Lord, extend,
And take the ordering of our way.
O Three in Unity!
Protect us all each day:
In this Thy path divine we pray.
Send us a faithful guide:
An angel to abide,
Whose hand shall lead us to Thy throne.
Our upward path direct,
From every foe protect,
And bring us back to claim our own.
Thy strong right arm extend,
And with Thy left defend,
And save us from the enemy.
O Thou Creator wise,
Soon may our longing eyes
The glory of Thy kingdom see.
Now glory let there be,
O Father, unto Thee,
From age to age eternally.