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about
In 1861, John Bacchus Dykes wrote the melody for this song, which is known as "Nicaea". He wrote it as a musical setting for the original text by Reginald Heber which was written in 1826. I grew up singing that hymn in church, and always loved it. My version features the traditional melody but with my own text, which is my effort to write lyrics that feel resonant with present day cosmology.
lyrics
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY by Peter Mayer
Holy, Holy, Holy
Holy wind around me
Holy sky above and
Holy ground beneath my feet
Over and below me
All the earth enfolds me
Shelters, holds me
Holy land and sea
Holy, Holy, Holy
Holy life inside me
Long ago begotten in
Primeval oceans deep
Lung and green leaf breathing
Heart and bright wing beating
Knowing, seeing
Holy life in me
Holy, Holy, Holy
Holy ancient story
From so small a seed is born
A trillion galaxies
And from one proceeds us
Children of the stardust
Sparks rising up from
Holy fire are we
Holy, Holy, Holy
Source of endless beauty
Lifting up our grateful hearts
We sing our song to Thee
Universe that dreamed us
Grow the love between us
Teach us wisdom
Holy mystery
credits
released August 16, 2025
Lyrics by Peter Mayer.
Hymn tune (melody) "Nicaea" by John Bacchus Dykes in 1861.
All parts (guitar, bass guitar, vocals) performed, recorded, and mixed by Peter Mayer.
Mastered by Randy Gildersleeve at Gildersound in Forest Lake, MN.
Photography by Peter Mayer.
Special thanks to Randy Gildersleeve.
Special thanks to Reginald Heber and John Bacchus Dykes.
Special thanks to my friends Steve and Cindy.
Minnesota's Peter Mayer has been singing and songwriting full-time for 30 years, performing in venues across the United
States and beyond. He writes songs about science, nature, and spirituality. His work has been included in song books, church hymnals, and folk radio playlists across the country. Peter has eleven albums to his credit. He lives in Stillwater, Minnesota....more
