Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones

Lyrics by: John Gower (1880)
Music by: Ralph Vaughan Williams (1906)
Tune: LASST UNS ERFREUEN · 8.8.8.8.8.8
Scripture: Revelation 5:11-12

Verse 1

Ye watchers and ye holy ones,
Bright seraphs, cherubim and thrones,
Raise the glad strain, Alleluia!
Cry out, dominions, princedoms, powers,
Virtues, archangels, angels'choirs,

Refrain

Alleluia, Alleluia,
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia!

Verse 2

O higher than the cherubim,
More glorious than the seraphim,
Lead their praises, Alleluia!
Thou bearer of the eternal Word,
Most gracious, magnify the Lord.

Verse 3

O friends, in gladness let us sing,
Supernal anthems echoing,
Alleluia, Alleluia!
To God the Father, God the Son,
And God the Spirit, Three in One.

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Originally published in the English Hymnal with music by Vaughan Williams, celebrating the angelic hosts.