Darkness hangs, the world is aching,
yearning for the coming light.
In His rising hope awaking,
love has come to steal the night.
In our hearts true east we’re facing.
toward the coming of our Lord.
Morning rising, gloom now fleeing;
Christ returned! His word is true.
Ascension’s sending hymn for Sunday, November 27, 2022, the First Sunday in Advent, is “Christ the Lord” by Sarah Hart and Robert Feduccia. Music publisher OCP writes about this hymn:
Sarah Hart built her lilting melody around Robert Feduccia’s image-laden poetry. The result is an Advent prayer that helps us reflect on the coming of Christ in prophecy, in mystery, in the poor, and in ourselves.
Sarah Hart is one of today’s leading figures in contemporary Catholic music. She writes a great deal of hymnody – both texts and tunes – and has written four retreat books. Her songs have been recorded by such well-known figures as Amy Grant, Matt Maher, and the Newsboys. Hart resides in Nashville with her husband and children.
Robert Feduccia is a sought-after Catholic speaker, evangelist, and retreat leader. His poetry brings music to life. Feduccia once served as the general manager of Spirit and Song, the contemporary music arm of OCP (Oregon Catholic Press). His texts are scripturally grounded and rich in imagery that helps draw the singer into the music.
