What are the lyrics of On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry by William Henry Monk?

“On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry” begins: On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry… Read the full lyrics on ChoirPDFs.

Who composed On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry?

On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry was composed by William Henry Monk.

What language is On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry sung in?

On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry is sung in English.

On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry by William Henry Monk — Lyrics & Sheet Music (PDF)

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Added Jul 31, 2026

Composer: William Henry Monk

Uploaded By: Choir PDFs

Format: Staff & Solfa

Language: English

Pages: 1 page

On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry by William Henry Monk — Lyrics

VERSE 1 On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry announces that the Lord is nigh; awake and hearken, for he brings glad tidings of the King of kings! VERSE 2 Then cleansed be every life from sin; make straight the way for God within, and let us all our hearts prepare for Christ to come and enter there.

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About On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry

"On Jordan's Bank the Baptist's Cry" is a classic Advent hymn that rings out like a clarion call across the choir loft. It captures the urgency and hope of John the Baptist’s message, urging the faithful to wake up and prepare their hearts for the coming of the Lord. When the choir leads this piece, you can almost feel the crisp anticipation of the Advent season settling over the congregation.

The verses move beautifully from a bold announcement to a deep, personal prayer. We start by hearing the glad tidings of the King of kings, and then the hymn asks us to make our own lives a straight path for God to enter. By the final stanzas, it becomes a plea for Christ to restore us and shine His divine love upon the world. It is a rousing choice for the entrance or recessional during those quiet weeks of waiting before Christmas, reminding everyone in the pews why we prepare.