Above the Clear Blue Sky

This hymn, which is particularly suitable for the feast of Christ the King, was written by English Anglican vicar, hymn-writer and translator John Chandler (1806-1876). It was originally intended for children, but can be used by all age groups.

It was first published in 1841.

With meter 6.6.6.6.4.4.4.4, tunes it is set to include:

CHILDREN'S VOICES by E J Hopkins - most commonly published tune - the hymn is sometimes known by this title
CHANDLER - composed for the text by William Henry Harper (1845-1903), but apparently not widely published
HAREWOOD by Samuel S Wesley
COBHAM by W H Harper

Downloads

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PowerPoint
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One of a trio of anthems, arraged for 2-part choir

Examples

Choir performance, piano accompaniment:

Lyrics

Traditional language

Above the clear blue sky,
In heaven's bright abode,
The angel host on high
Sing praises to their God:
Alleluia!
They love to sing
To God their King
Alleluia!

But God from children's tongues
On earth receiveth praise;
We then our cheerful songs
In sweet accord will raise:
Alleluia!
We too will sing
To God our King
Alleluia!

O blessed Lord, Thy truth
To all Thy flock impart,
And teach us in our youth
To know Thee as Thou art.
Alleluia!
Then shall we sing
To God our King
Alleluia!

Oh, may thy holy Word
Spread all the world around!
And all with one accord
Uplift the joyful sound:
Alleluia!
All then shall sing
To God their King
Alleluia!

Modern English

Above the clear blue sky,
In heaven's bright abode,
The angel host on high
Sing praises to their God:
Alleluia!
They love to sing
To God their King
Alleluia!

But God from children's tongues
On earth receives praise;
We then our cheerful songs
In sweet accord will raise:
Alleluia!
We too will sing
To God our King
Alleluia!

O blessed Lord, Your truth
To all Your flock impart,
And teach us in our youth
To know You as You are.
Alleluia!
Then shall we sing
To God our King
Alleluia!

Oh, may Your holy Word
Spread all the world around!
And all with one accord
Uplift the joyful sound:
Alleluia!
All then shall sing
To God their King
Alleluia!