It is based on the hymn Laudes Creaturarum (Praise of the Creatures) which was written by Francis of Assisi
It was included on the recording "Happy the Man" released by Franciscan Communications in 1967 (ref). A music-book for this was releases by GIA Publications, and this is still available from Sheet Music Plus - link below.
Downloads
Examples
Solo singer with folk-style backing band:
Singes with backing band:
Instrumental - piano:
Lyrics
Be praised, Most High, Almighty Lord
Yours the blessings and glory be.
Only honour belongs to you for all eternity.
Be praised, Lord of the creature world,
And first Sir Brother and Sun.
Who through the day and light you give,
Reflects you, O Holy One.
Be praised through Sister Moon and Stars,
Bright and precious they shine above.
Through Brother Wind and all Weathers too
Be praised, O Lord of Love.
Through Sister Water, Lord be praised
For fair and chaste is She,
And Brother Fire that Lights the Night,
So strong and bright is He.
Be praised through Sister Mother Earth,
For She sustains and guides our way.
And yields so many fruits and grass
And flowers to brighten our day.
Be praised through all who pardon give,
For love of you bearing their pain.
Blessed men suffering peacefully,
They shall not cry in vain.
There is a verse 4
ReplyDeleteBe praised through Brother Death of Flesh,
From whom no living man can flee,
Woe to those that he finds in sin,
But those in grace he sets free.
Be praised, Lord of the creature world,
And first Sir Brother and Sun.
Who through the day and light you give,
Reflects you, O Holy One.