What star is this What star is this
Music-control panel or
New
window
(one verse introduction)
What star is this, with beams so bright,
more beauteous than the noonday light?
It shines to herald forth the King,
and Gentiles to that crib to bring.
True spoke the prophet from afar
who told the rise of Jacob's star;
and eastern sages with amaze
upon the wondrous token gaze.
The guiding star above is bright;
within them shines a clearer light;
and leads them on with power benign
to seek the Giver of the sign.
O Jesus, while the star of grace
impels us on to seek your face,
let not our slothful hearts refuse
the guidance of your light to use.
To God the Father, heavenly Light,
to Christ, revealed in earthly night,
to God the Holy Ghost we raise
our equal and unceasing praise.
Music: Puer nobis adapt. Michael Praetorius (15th C)
Words: Charles Coffin (18th C)
Sequence: Dall Forsythe, Church of St. John the Evangelist