Watch a video of members of the Choir of the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul singing “Sound the Holy Bell of Freedom” — the official hymn for the 2015 World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia — for the first time in public Sunday, Nov. 30 at the Cathedral. (Video by Daniel Kearns)
“Sound the Bell of Holy Freedom”
Sound the bell of holy freedom; call all nations of the earth.
Sons and daughters of one Father, sent to spread God’s saving Word.
Come, and gather, as one fam’ly at the table of the Lord.
David branch from root of Jesse, Mary that vine’s flow’ring rose.
She brought forth for us the Savior as the angel did propose;
Overshadowed by the Spirit, by her “yes” new life arose.
Blessed Joseph, spouse of Mary, teacher of your God and Lord,
You did shelter and provide for wondrous child by kings adored.
Open to God’s Word in dreaming saved your child from Herod’s sword.
Jesus, youth in low’ly Naz’reth, faithful son, and loving child,
Guest and host at Cana’s wedding, finest wine you did provide.
You, our rock, and you our shelter, keep us ever by your side.
At the cross, a grieving mother, on the cross, her only son,
With all mothers and their children, Blessed Mary, you are one.
In our joys, and in our sorrows may we do as you have done.
Sound the bell of holy freedom; call all fam’lies of the world
To be fed by love incarnate; to proclaim God’s holy Word;
Through the love of Christ our brother, in the Spirit make us one.
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thanks for sharing the Hymn to be sung at the World Meeting Of Families written by Father Ciferni O Praem it is so beautiful and appropriate for the occasion May God Bless this Holy Event
You are most welcome. Here’s a suggestion: Since we’re encouraged to pray for the World Meeting of Families, and since singing sacred music is “praying twice,” why not sing along with the choir for a verse or two in your daily prayers? The staff of CatholicPhilly.com prays with you!
Terrific. I love the words. Paul