NeuroDivine

This hymn and stained-glass image are inspired by Chapter 13 of the Rule of Our Holy Father Saint Benedict, in which he sets forth the reverent ordering of the Divine Office at Lauds on ordinary days. Rooted in the rhythm of psalmody, canticle, Gospel praise, and litany, the work reflects Saint Benedict’s vision of a community gathered at daybreak—hearts attuned to Scripture, voices united in praise, and lives shaped by the steady return of prayer.

Drawing on Ireland’s monastic landscape of stone, sea, and woven cross, the image and text together express the Benedictine conviction that though scattered in place, we are made one in Christ through the psalms. As morning light rises over island and harbour, so the Gospel dawns again in every heart faithful to the Rule.

At Morning Light, Though Scattered Far

For the Community of St Benedict – Ireland

At morning light, though scattered far,
we rise to greet Your grace;
the psalms become a woven cord
that binds us place to place.
Like circles traced on ancient stones,
our prayers return to You;
Your mercy gathers us as one,
our hearts made still and true.

Through weekday paths the psalms unfold,
a rhythm old and kind;
their cadence like the river’s course
through valley, field, and mind.
From prophets’ fire to Moses’ song,
from praise the heavens raise—
Your Word is carved in living lines
that shape our work to praise.

Th' Apostle’s teaching, learned by heart,
becomes our guiding thread;
Te Deum lifts our scattered prayers
to Christ, our living Head.
The Gospel dawns like rising sun
on hill and harbour grey;
and in the litany we walk
the pilgrim’s Celtic way.

So bless us, Lord, in island homes,
in towns and quiet fields;
in cloistered hearts where Benedict
still teaches peace to yield.
Like knots of love no night can break,
Your Spirit makes us one;
till evening’s hush and morning’s call
are braided in Your Son.

Hymn information

First line: At morning light, though scattered far
Text: Michael McFarland Campbell
Metre: DCM
Tune: Kingsfold, Third Mode Melody
Theme: The Community of St Benedict, Rule of St Benedict
Scripture References: Exodus 15:1–18; Deuteronomy 6:4–9; Psalm 1; 19:7–14; 95; 100; 119:97–105; 133; Isaiah 6:1–8; Isaiah 55:10–11; Matthew 6:9–13; 18:20; Luke 24:27; Acts 2:42–47; Romans 12:1–2; Ephesians 4:1–6; Colossians 3:16–17; 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18; Hebrews 13:15; Revelation 4:8–11; 7:9–12; 21:1–4.
Additional Liturgical Reference: Rule of Saint Benedict, Chapter 13 (Lauds on Weekdays).

© 2026 Michael McFarland Campbell. Permission granted for local church use with attribution. Not for commercial reproduction without permission.