Teen Hayley Westenra performs a beautiful rendition of the classic hymn ‘Abide With Me.’ This special hymn was written by Henry Lyte. Lyte became an ordained ministry of the Church of England after graduating attended Trinity College in Dublin. While in school, he won prizes and scholarships for poetry.
Later in life, Lyte became ill with tuberculosis and was not expected to live much longer. At the young age of 45, he prepared a farewell speech that included the lyrics of ‘Abide With Me.’ Just 10 weeks after sharing his speech, Lyte passed away.
Today, Hayley Westenra is lending her vocals to this timeless hymn and it’s absolutely incredible. There’s something about hearing these words performed in a beautiful church that will truly make you feel closer to God.
‘Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide;
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, oh, abide with me.
Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day;
Earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see—
O Thou who changest not, abide with me.
I need Thy presence every passing hour;
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s pow’r?
Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.
I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless;
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness;
Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.’