Great Saint Andrew

Lover of His Glorious Cross

Great Saint Andrew was written by Fr. Frederick Oakeley (1802-1880). Ordained an Anglican Priest in 1828, along with others of the Oxford Movement, he converted to Catholicism in 1848. He is best known for his translation of Adeste Fideles (O Come All Ye Faithful). Great Saint Andrew is set to the 1840 tune, Contemplation (also known as Trust) by Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847). In the Liturgy of the Hours, Great Saint Andrew, Friend of Jesus is used on November 30, the Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle.


GREAT SAINT ANDREW by Frederick Oakeley, (Public Domain)

1. Great Saint Andrew, friend of Jesus,
Lover of his glorious cross,
Early by his voice effective
Called from ease to pain and loss.

2. Strong Saint Andrew, Simon’s brother,
Who with haste fraternal flew,
Fain with him to share the treasure
Which at Jesus’ lips he drew.

3. Blest St Andrew, Jesus’ herald,
True Apostle, martyr bold,
Who by deed his words confirming
Sealed with blood the truth he told.

4. Ne’er to king was crown so beauteous,
Ne’er to heart was prize so dear,
As to him the cross of Jesus
When its promised joys drew near.

5. Loved Saint Andrew, Scotland’s patron,
Watch thy land with heedful eye,
Rally round the cross of Jesus
All her storied chivalry!

6. To the Father, Son and Spirit,
Fount of sanctity and love,
Give we glory now and ever,
With the saints who reign above.