
Author: Fred Pratt Green (1903-2000) Meter: 6.6.6.6.6 with refrain Appears in 17 hymnals Topics: Other Saints and Festivals The Visit of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Elizabeth First Line: Long ago, prophets knew Lyrics: 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! Scripture: Isaiah 11 Used With Tune: PERSONENT HODIE
Ring, bells, ring, ring, ring!