In Night's Dim Shadows Lying

In Night's Dim Shadows Lying

For Advent

Words: In Noctis Umbra Desides, Charles Coffin (1676-1749), Paris Breviary, 1736
Translation by W. J. Blew

Source: George Radcliffe Woodward, ed., Songs of Syon (London: Schott & Co., Third Edition, 1908), # 11

1. In night’s dim shadows lying,
Our limbs fast lock’d in sleep,
To thee, with faithful sighing,
Our souls their vigil keep.

2. Desire of every nation,
Hear, Lord, our piteous cry;
Thou Word, the world’s salvation,
Uplift us where we lie.

3. Lord, be thine Advent hasten’d,
Lest sin thy people mar;
The gates which Adam fasten’d—
The gates of heav’n, unbar.

4. Son, to thine endless merit,
Redeemer, Saviour, Friend,
With Sire and Holy Spirit
Be praises without end. Amen.

If you would like to help support Hymns and Carols of Christmas, please click on the button below and make a donation.