Creator Spirit, By Whose Aid
Text by John Dryden (based upon Veni Creator Spiritus); a broad, grand anthem in the English cathedral style. SATB (or unison), organ accompaniment, with optional solo. This would also be suitable for ordination services.
Creator spirit, by whose aid
The world's foundations first were laid,
Come, visit every pious mind;
Come, pour thy joys on human kind;
From sin and sorrow set us free,
And make thy temples worthy thee.
O source of uncreated light,
The Father's promised Paraclete,
Thrice holy fount, thrice holy fire,
Our hearts with heav’nly love inspire;
Come, and thy sacred unction bring
To sanctify us while we sing.
Thou strength of his almighty hand,
Whose power does earth and heaven command,
Refine and purge our earthy parts;
But O, inflame and fire our hearts!
And lest our feet should go astray,
Protect and guide us in the way.
Plenteous of grace, descend from high
Rich in thy sev’nfold energy;
Make us eternal truths receive,
And practise all that we believe;
Give us thyself, that we may see
The Father and the Son by thee.
Immortal honour, endless fame,
Attend the Almighty Father's name;
The saviour Son be glorified,
Who for lost man's redemption died;
And equal adoration be,
Eternal Paraclete, to thee.