The chant DIVINUM MYSTERIUM dates back to the thirteenth century; we now recognize it by the lyrics: “Of the Father’s Love Begotten”. You can imagine how it would resonate in a stone monastery far off in the hills!
Of the Father’s love begotten ere the worlds began to be,
He is Alpha and Omega; He the source, the ending He,
of the things that are, that have been, and that future years shall see
evermore and evermore!
O that birth forever blessed, when a virgin, full of grace,
by the Holy Ghost conceiving, bore the Savior of our race;
and the Babe, the world’s Redeemer, first revealed his sacred face,
evermore and evermore!
O ye heights of heaven adore Him, angel hosts, His praises sing,
pow’ers, dominions, bow before Him, and extol our God and King;
let no tongue on earth be silent, ev’ery voice in concert ring
evermore and evermore!
Christ, to Thee with God the Father and, O Holy Ghost, to Thee,
hymn and chant and high thanksgiving and unwearied praises be:
honor, glory, and dominion, and eternal victory
evermore and evermore!
Tune: DIVINUM MYSTERIUM
Find metrically-matched hymn texts
Church Calendar: Advent, Christmas
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Other arrangements available for handbell choir.
Purchasing this 8-bell arrangement gives you permission to print and maintain up to four copies for your handbell group (plus the accompaniment score, if part of the purchase) – so you only need to pay once. Purchase also gives permission for performance, broadcasting, live-streaming and video-sharing online. See our licensing agreement for full details, and please remember to mention the title and arranger of the piece on video-sharing sites, social media and any printed materials such as concert programs.
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