Goodnight Sweet Jesus Goodnight

This is a sentimental hymn for the end of the day. It was written by American Roman Catholic priest Father James B. Curry (d 1932).

It was included in "The Little Catholic's Choral" edited by Curry and published by M. A. O'Connor of New York in 1913, and was later in the 1936 "Favorite Radio Hymns of Rev Edward MacHugh". More recently it was recorded by the Daughters of Mary, a traditional Roman Catholic religious order from New York, USA.

The song is set to an unnamed tune, also by Curry. This appears to have been published with some slight variations over the years - the version shown below is the clearest one located to date.

Downloads

This section may contain affiliate links: I earn from qualifying purchases on these. Free downloads are provided where possible (eg for public domain items).

Lead sheet
(melody + guitar chords)

PowerPoint
slides

Examples

Solo singer with gentle organ backing:

Solo singer with backing - professional recording:

Lyrics

Goodnight, sweet Jesus, guard us in sleep,
Our souls and bodies, in thy love keep.
Waking or sleeping, keep us in sight,
Dear gentle saviour, goodnight, goodnight.

Chorus:
Goodnight, dear Jesus,
Goodnight, goodnight.

Goodnight sweet Jesus grant that each day,
Of our lives mortal, thus pass away.
Thy love o'er watching, guiding our right,
Dear gentle saviour, goodnight, goodnight.

Grant gracious Jesus, when sets the sun,
Of our life earthly and day is done.
That Thou wilt take us to Heaven's light,
Dear gentle Saviour, Goodnight, goodnight.

Goodnight, sweet Jesus, thanks for Thy loyal love,
And all Thy wondrous gifts showered from above.
Grant us forgiveness, poor sinners in Thy sight;
Dear gentle Saviour, Goodnight, goodnight.

Goodnight, sweet Jesus, watch while we rest in sleep;
Thou art our Shepherd Lord; we are Thy sheep
When we awaken, be Thou our Morning Light,
Dear gentle Saviour, Goodnight, goodnight.