Christ is our King / He is the Light of the World - White

This is a hymn about Christ as king and light of the world, hope, unity and freedom - and the depth of God's presence.

It was written by English Roman-Catholic convert, musician, physiotherapist, and later teacher and hymn-writer Estelle White (1925-2011).

The song was first published by Kevin Mayhew Limited in 1976 in the 20th Century Folk Hymnal Volume 2. In-print hymnals which it is published in inlcude:

The un-named tune, also by White, has a 3/4 time signature and a waltz rhythm. In the key of G, the first few notes are B A, B D C# D GFG b.

Christ is our King, let the whole world rejoice! May all the nations sing out with one voice! Light of the world, you have helped us to see that we are one people and one day we shall all be free. 1 He came to open the eyes of the blind, letting the sunlight pour into their minds. Vision is waiting for those who have hope. He is the light of the world. 2 He came to speak tender words to the poor, he is the gateway and he is the door. Riches are waiting for all those who hope. He is the light of the world. 3 He came to open the doors of the jail, he came to help the downtrodden and frail. Freedom is waiting for all those who hope. He is the light of the world. 4 He came to open the lips of the mute, letting them speak out with courage and truth. His words are uttered by all those who hope. He is the light of the world. 5 He came to heal all the crippled and lame, sickness took flight at the sound of his name. Vigour is waiting for all those who hope. He is the light of the world. 6 He came to love everyone on this earth, and through his Spirit he promised rebirth. New life is waiting for all those who hope. He is the light of the world.

Downloads

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Examples

Small group with keyboard backing:

Solo singer with piano backing:

Small group with piano accompaniment:

Lyrics

The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available on this website.

The song starts with a four-line chorus, and this is repeated after each of the verses. A rough outline is:

Chorus:
Christ is our King, let the whole world rejoice!
May all the nations sing out with one voice!
Light of the world, you have helped us to see
That we are one people and one day we shall all be free.

1 He came to open the eyes of the blind,
... He is the light of the world.

2 He came to speak tender words to the poor ...

3 He came to open the doors of the jail ...

4 He came to open the lips of the mute ...

5 He came to heal all the crippled and lame...

6 He came to love everyone on this earth....