Jesus Christ the apple tree (Elizabeth Poston) - Guildford Cathedral Choir (Barry Rose)

Guildford Cathedral Choir, directed by Barry Rose: Evensong in Guildford Cathedral, 23 July 1970: (First published in the “Cambridge Hymnal“, 1967. Text published in London’s “Spiritual Magazine“, August, 1761, credited to “R.H.“ as submitter and presumed author, and in America in “Divine Hymns or Spiritual Songs“ (1784), compiled by Joshua Smith. Apple trees were commonly grown in early New England and there was an old English tradition of wassailing (or “wishing health to“) apple trees on Christmas Eve. This piece is now performed by choirs around the world, especially during the Christmas season as a Christmas carol) The tree of life my soul hath seen, Laden with fruit and always green: The trees of nature fruitless be Compared with Christ the apple tree. His beauty doth all things excel: By faith I know, but ne’er can tell The glory which I now can see In Jesus Christ the apple tree. For happiness I long have sought, And pleasure dearly I have bought: I missed of all; but now I see ’Tis found in Christ the apple tree. I’m weary with my former toil, Here I will sit and rest awhile: Under the shadow I will be Of Jesus Christ the apple tree. This fruit doth make my soul to thrive, It keeps my dying faith alive; Which makes my soul in haste to be With Jesus Christ the apple tree. Please comment, “like“, share or embed. All subscriptions welcome!