This edition was prepared by Barry Johnston — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Barnstable
Staff Notation • Sacred
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2 editions of this piece
Different typesettings and voicings of the same work. This page shows the main edition; the others are below.
SATB · Barry Johnston
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Barnstable by Daniel Read — Lyrics
WESLEY'S VERSION OF 1746
Hail the day that sees him rise,
Ravished from our wishful eyes!
Christ, a while to mortals given,
Reascends his native heaven.
There the pompous triumph waits:
Lift your heads, eternal gates!
Wide unfold the radiant scene,
Take the King of Glory in.
Circled round with angelpow’rs,
Their triumphant Lord and ours,
Conqueror o’er death, hell, and sin,
Take the King of Glory in.
Him though highest heaven receives,
Still he loves the earth he leaves;
Though returning to his throne,
Still he calls mankind his own.
See, he lifts his hands above!
See, he shows the prints of love!
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About Barnstable
Daniel Read's sacred anthem Barnstable is set for SATB choir. The text, an English adaptation of Charles Wesley's hymn, focuses on Christ's Ascension. It paints a vivid picture of Christ returning to heaven, triumphant over death and sin, to intercede for humanity. The lyrics convey a sense of awe and reverence as the gates of heaven open to receive their King, while also assuring the faithful that Christ's love and blessings remain with the church on earth. This setting is suitable for services commemorating the Ascension or celebrating Christ's sovereignty.
