Author: Aurelius Prudentius, 5th Century; Richard Mant Meter: 7.7.7.7 Appears in 1 hymnal Lyrics: 1 First of cities, Bethlehem,
Hail, most favored! When He came,
Savior of the human race,
Thee the Godhead deigned to grace.
2 Brighter than the sun’s bright car,
And more glorious was the star,
Which in Thee new-born from high
Told the incarnate Deity.
3 Him what time the Magians saw,
Forth their orient gifts they draw;
Prostrate they with vows unfold
Myrrh, and frankincense, and gold.
4 Frankincense and gold they bring,
To announce their God and king;
Spice of aromatic myrrh,
To announce His sepulcher.
5 Jesus, let Thy name be blest,
To the Gentiles manifest;
To the Father glory be,
With the Spirit, and with Thee! Used With Tune: INNOCENTS Text Sources: Ancient Hymns from the Roman Breviary (London, J. G. & F. Rivington, 1837)
First of Cities, Bethlehem