MUSIC. ST. LO is a unique melody, constructed on three phrases of three measures each. It is a simple, diatonic tune, moving within the pitch range of a sixth, with the third phrase a repetition of the first. It should be sung in a quiet manner, and is well adapted for unison singing. The tune, an old Breton melody, appeared in School Worship, London, 1926, from whence it was introduced into the Presbyterian Hymnal of 1935 and from thence to the Hymnary.
389. O grant us light that we may know
Lawrence Tuttiett, 1825-97
A prayer for the light from God to illuminate the mind in its search for truth.
The author wrote many of his hymns on returning from visiting the sick and bereaved, expressing in them thoughts of consolation for families in sorrow and trouble. That this hymn may have had a similar origin is indicated by the omitted Stanzas 4 and 5, which are as follows:
O grant us light, in grief and pain,
To lift our burdened hearts above,
And count the very cross a gain,
And bless our Father’s hidden love.
O grant us light, when, soon or late,