The New English Hymnal ‎#10

10. Long ago, prophets knew

1 LONG ago, prophets knew
Christ would come, born a Jew.
Come to make all things new;
Bear his People's burden,
Freely love and pardon.

Refrain:
Ring, bells, ring, ring, ring!
Sing, choirs, sing, sing, sing!
When he comes,
When he comes,
Who will make him welcome?

2 God in time, God in man,
This is God's timeless plan:
He will come, as a man,
Born himself of woman,
God divinely human. [Refrain]

3 Mary, hail! Though afraid,
She believed, she obeyed.
In her womb God is laid;
Till the time expected
Nurtured and protected. [Refrain]

4 Journey ends! Where afar
Bethlem shines, like a star,
Stable door stands ajar.
Unborn Son of Mary,
Saviour, do not tarry!

Refrain:
Ring, bells, ring, ring, ring!
sing, choirs, sing, sing, sing!
Jesus comes!
Jesus comes!
We will make him welcome!

Text Information

• First Line: Long ago, prophets knew
• Author: F. Pratt, Green, 1903-2000
• Refrain First Line: Ring bells, ring, ring, ring!
• Meter: 666 66 and refrain
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1986
• Topic: The Christian Year: Advent
• Copyright: Permission granted by Stainer & Bell Ltd.
• ONE LICENSE: 30822

Tune Information

• Name: PERSONENT HODIE
• Meter: 666 66 and refrain
• Key: b minor
• Source: Piae Cantiones, 1582
• Copyright: Arr. By permission of Oxford Univeristy Press (from "English Praise")