The plainchant DIVINUM MYSTERIUM has been around since the thirteenth century. Because it’s a chant, the metrical pattern of the melody is based on the syllabic structure of the text, making the phrases of variable length. This new arrangement, however, is in almost-5/4 (so, with a few 4/4 measures thrown in) – we think it’ll be a joyful representation (or “re-presentation”) of the hymn!
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!
Purchasing the handbell choir version of this arrangement grants permission to print and maintain up to fifteen copies for your handbell ensemble; purchasing the single copy version grants permission to print and maintain one copy. 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.
