St John's day

My feast day. The Anglicans have my favourite gospel which was always read at St John's College at school Masses about Peter asking if John will live to see the return of Jesus. Catholics read about Peter and John running to the tomb "he saw and believed". To St John's for Eucharist - attractive Mass of St Cedd by Peter Nardone, Philip Ledger's Christmas gloria and Eyre's O fragrant the lilies. Gave out carol CDs which were much appreciated. Jo Richards said he had seen me as crucifer at the cathedral. Josie, Clare and Grandma for lunch which was very nice. To vespers and Mass for feast of Holy Family - 4 priests at Mass. Told Fr Swavek Liz had opened Polish gherkins and had to be eaten in 48 hours! Here is John Keble's great hymn for today.
1. Word supreme, before creation
Born of God eternally,
Who didst will for our salvation
To be born on earth, and die;
Will thy Saints have kept their station,
Watching till thine hour drew nigh.

2. Now 'tis come, and faith espies thee;
Like an eaglet in the morn,
One in steadfast worship eyes thee,
Thy beloved, thy latest born:
In thy glory he descries thee
Reigning from the tree of scorn.

3. He upon Thy Bosom lying
Thy true tokens learn'd by heart;
And Thy dearest pledge in dying,
Lord, Thou didst to him impart:
Show'dst him how, all grace supplying,
Blood and water from Thee start.

4. He first hoping and believing
Did beside the grave adore;
Latest he, the warfare leaving,
Landed on the eternal shore;
And his witness we receiving
Own thee Lord for evermore.

5. Much he asked in loving wonder,
On thy bosom leaning, Lord!
In that secret place of thunder,
Answer kind didst thou accord.
Wisdom for thy Church to ponder
Till the day of dread award.

6. Lo! heaven's doors lift up, revealing
How thy judgements earthward move;
Scrolls unfolded, trumpets pealing,
Wine-cups from the wrath above,
Yet o'er all a soft voice stealing --
'Little children, trust and love!'

7. Thee, the Almighty King eternal,
Father of the eternal Word;
Thee, the Father's Word supernal,
Thee, of both, the Breath adored;
Heaven, and earth, and realms infernal
Own, one glorious God and Lord.