I

All hail, life-bearing Cross,

The trophy of the good,

Thy bloom is fragrance on our way,

Thy fruit our heavenly food.

II

Entrance to paradise,

Strength of all faithful souls;

The Church’s fortress when the foe

His banner grim unrolls.

III

By thee the curse is gone,

And death no terror brings;

We cast his power beneath our feet,

And rise to heavenly things.

IV

O shield of our defence,

And foe of all our foes;

The glory of the saints of God,

Their crown for all their woes.

V

Who follow Christ the Lord,

Their beauty find in thee;

Their harbour of salvation thou,

Now and eternally.