Catholic Activity: Easter Hymn: O filii and filiae (Ye Sons and Daughters)

This hymn was written by Jean Tisserand, O.F.M. (d. 1494), an eloquent preacher, and originally comprised but nine stanzas. For more information see The Catholic Encyclopedia.

DIRECTIONS

Refrain: Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia.

Ye sons and daughters of the Lord,
the King of glory, King adored,
this day Himself from death restored.

R. Alleluia

All in the early morning gray
went holy women on their way,
to see the tomb where Jesus lay.

R. Alleluia

Of spices pure a precious store
in their pure hands these women bore,
to anoint the sacred Body o'er.

R. Alleluia

The straightaway one in white they see,
who saith, "seek the Lord: but He
is risen and gone to Galilee."

R. Alleluia

This told they Peter, told John;
who forthwith to the tomb are gone,
but Peter is by John outrun.

R. Alleluia

That self-same night, while out of fear
the doors where shut, their Lord most dear
to His Apostles did appear.

R. Alleluia

But Thomas, when of this he heard,
was doubtful of his brethren's word;
wherefore again there comes the Lord.

R. Alleluia

"Thomas, behold my side," saith He;
"My hands, My feet, My body see,
and doubt not, but believe in Me."

R. Alleluia

When Thomas saw that wounded side,
the truth no longer he denied;
"Thou art my Lord and God!" he cried.

R. Alleluia

Oh, blest are they who have not seen
their Lord and yet believe in Him!
eternal life awaiteth them.

R. Alleluia

Now let us praise the Lord most high,
and strive His name to magnify
on this great day, through earth and sky:

R. Alleluia

Whose mercy ever runneth o'er;
Whom men and Angel hosts adore;
to Him be glory evermore.

R. Alleluia