This beauty of this hymn to the Sacred Heart is particularly in the words, by an unknown author in the 18th century. It was originally a Latin hymn, but was translated around 1849 by Fr. Edward Caswall (1814-1878). The Latin hymn, Quicumquae certum quaeritis, was used in Matins and Vespers for the feast of the Sacred Heart (the Friday after the Octave of Corpus Christi.)
Sheet Music and Audio
I found several musical settings of this hymn, but these two are my favorite. The first, set to the tune St. Bernard, is more appropriate for a church setting. The second, by E.F. MacGonigle, is probably too sentimental for Mass, but is perfect for home. It is a new melody to me, but I already find myself humming it around the house! Enjoy!
Church version:
Sheet music by ccwatershed.org. – Set to the tune St. Bernard
Devotional version:
Score from the Sodalist’s Hymnal on archive.org – Arranged by E. F. MacGonigle (copyright 1887)
Musescore link – Use if the embedded player isn’t working, or if you want to download the sheet music I made.
All Ye Who Seek a Comfort Sure by erin.mcfarland.16
Here is a recording I made at home. Can’t wait to buy a better mic! 🙂
Lyrics
Translation by Fr. Edward Caswall (1814-1878)
1. All ye who seek a comfort sure
In trouble and distress,
Whatever sorrows vex the mind,
Or guilt the soul oppress,
2. Jesus, who gave Himself for you
Upon the cross to die,
Opens to you His sacred heart;
O to that heart draw nigh.
3. Ye hear how kindly He invites;
Ye hear His words so blest;
“All ye that labor come to me,
And I will give you rest.”
4. What meeker than the Saviour’s Heart?
As on the Cross He lay,
It did His murderers forgive,
And for their pardon pray.
5. O Heart, Thou joy of Saints on high,
Thou hope of sinners here,
Attracted by those loving words
To Thee I life my prayer.
6. Wash thou my wounds in that dear Blood,
Which forth from Thee doth flow;
New grace, new hope inspire, a new
And better heart bestow.
