This is a translation by K. W. Blount from over three hundred years ago, of a Latin text Vexilla regis prodeunt by Venantius Fortunatus that is roughly 1500 years old. It is set to PLAINSONG VEXILLA REGIS here arranged by John de Luca.
de Luca says the translation is “et al” and there are many variations in the text – I have typed his version. Wikipedia helpfully goes through textual variants.
If you don’t have a relic of the true cross to process with it is an Easter hymn. It reminds me of the Dream of the Rood.
Liturgyshare have the chant.
I shouldn’t really attempt this sort of thing on BIAB but here goes.
I
Abroad the regal banners fly,
Now shines the Cross’s mystery;
Upon it Life did death endure,
And yet by death did life procure.
II
Who wounded with a direful spear,
Did, purposely to wash us clear
From stain of sin, pour out a flood
Of precious water mixed with blood.
III
That which the prophet-king of old
Hath in mysterious verse foretold,
Is now accomplished, whilst we see
God ruling nations from a Tree.
IV
O lovely and respendent Tree,
Adorned with purple majesty;
Culled from a worthy stock, to bear
Those limbs which made thee holy there.
V
Blest Tree, whose happy branches bore
The wealth that did the world restore;
The beam that did that body weigh
Which raised up hell’s expected prey.
VI
Hail Cross, our hope; on the we call,
Who keep this solemn festival;
Grant to the just increase of grace,
And every sinner’s crimes efface.
VII
Blest Trinity, we praises sing
To thee, from whom all graces spring;
Celestial crowns on those bestow
Who conquer by the Cross below.
Amen.
This sounds nice in Latin:
Right tune, different translation:
Nice instrumental backing: