1 Holy Ghost, my Comforter,
Now from highest heaven appear,
Shed Thy gracious radiance here.
2 Blessed Sun of grace, o'er all
Faithful hearts who on Thee call
Let Thy light and solace fall.
3 What without Thy aid is wrought,
Skilful deed or wisest thought,
God will count but vain and nought.
4 Cleanse us, Lord from sinful stain,
On the parched spirit rain,
Heal the wounded of its pain.
5 Bend the stubborn will to Thine,
Melt the cold with fire divine,
Erring hearts to right incline.
6 Grant us, Lord, who cry to Thee,
Steadfast in the faith to be,
Give Thy gift of charity.
7 May we live in holiness,
And in death find happiness,
And abide with Thee in bliss!
Source: Methodist Hymn and Tune Book: official hymn book of the Methodist Church #157
Catherine Winkworth (b. Holborn, London, England, 1827; d. Monnetier, Savoy, France, 1878) is well known for her English translations of German hymns; her translations were polished and yet remained close to the original. Educated initially by her mother, she lived with relatives in Dresden, Germany, in 1845, where she acquired her knowledge of German and interest in German hymnody. After residing near Manchester until 1862, she moved to Clifton, near Bristol. A pioneer in promoting women's rights, Winkworth put much of her energy into the encouragement of higher education for women. She translated a large number of German hymn texts from hymnals owned by a friend, Baron Bunsen. Though often altered, these translations continue to be used i… Go to person page >| First Line: | Holy Ghost! my Comforter! |
| German Title: | Heil'ger Geist, du Tröster mein |
| Translator (from German): | Catherine Winkworth (1855) |
| Meter: | 7.7.7 |
| Source: | Veni Sancte Spiritus, Et emitte coelitus |
| Language: | English |
| Copyright: | Public Domain |
My Starred Hymns