Translation of the Veni, Sancte Spiritus

My original translation, written in 2023, is set in iambic pentameter.

O come, Thou Holy Spirit, from on high,

Send forth from Thy great throne in heav’nly heights

A ray of Thy most pure and brilliant light.

Come forth, O Father of the poor in heart,

Come forth, Thou Giver of good gifts and art,

Come forth, O light of all Thy faithful hearts.

O Thou, best Comforter of souls in fear,

O Thou, sweet Guest of Thine own souls so near,

O Thou, sweetest Refreshment to all here.

O Thou, sweet Rest in labors wearisome,

O Thou, the cooling Breeze amidst the warmth,

O Thou, Relief in tears so far from home.

O Thou, most blesséd Light unto our souls,

So graciously our hearts do Thou make full,

And all hearts of Thy faithful people sure.

For without Thee, O God the Holy Ghost,

There is nothing in man of which to boast,

And nothing is unharmful, all is woe.

So that which is now filthy do Thou cleanse,

And water that which is so dry within,

And heal the woundedness brought on by sin.

Bend that which has become so stiff in pride,

Warm that which has become so cold inside,

Rule those who from the way have gone aside.

Give to Thy faithful people, Lord most dear,

Who in Thee trust so deeply without fear,

Thy sev’nfold gifts distilled in holy cheer.

Reward the merit of each virtuous life,

Make health and saving grace in us abide,

Enduring joy and mirth in us reside.

Amen. Alleluia.

Tuesday, September 10, 2024