Hymns of the Early Church / being translations from the poetry of the Latin church, arranged in the order of the Christian year

by John Brownlie

PUGNATE, CHRISTE MILITES

Given in editions of the Paris Breviary subsequent to 1736, along with the hymn Cœlestis O Jerusalem, for the vigil of All Saints Day at Lauds. Author not traced.

I

Christian soldiers in the conflict!

Bear the banner of the cross;

Rich reward shall crown the victor,

More than recompense for loss.

II

Not with paltry palms that wither

Shall the brow be gaily crowned,

But with light that shines eternal,

And with heavenly joy renowned.

III

Yours are mansions fair and comely—

There your souls in bliss shall rest;

Stars shall sparkle in their radiance,

On the pathway of the blest.

IV

Earthly joys are faint and fleeting,

Earthly favours quickly fade;

Heavenwards lift your eyes, expecting

There your true reward is laid.

V

God be praised who crowns the victor,

Christ be praised who saves from sin;

Equal praise to God the Spirit,

By whose aid we fight and win.