Shine, Jesus Shine

"Shine, Jesus Shine" is one of those rare modern hymns that has firmly rooted itself in the repertoire of choirs everywhere. Written by Graham Kendrick, it carries a bright, driving energy that immediately lifts the spirit of the congregation. The verses speak of moving out of darkness and into the radiant presence of God, asking Him to search us, consume our shadows, and transform us so our lives can mirror His story.

In our parishes, this piece is a favorite for the Entrance or Recessional procession. When the choir launches into that soaring refrain—"Shine, Jesus, shine, fill this land with the Father's glory"—it feels like a bold declaration of faith. The call for the Spirit to blaze and set our hearts on fire makes it especially powerful for Pentecost, but its message of carrying Christ's light out into the world fits perfectly at the end of any Sunday Mass as the people are sent forth.