Venantius Fortunatus

“ Behold, He who was crucified reigns as God over all things, and all created objects offer prayer to their Creator. Hail, festive day, to be reverenced throughout the world, [17] on which God has conquered hell, and gains the stars! The changes of the year and of the months, the bounteous light of the days, the splendour of the hours, all things with voice applaud. [18] Hence, in honour of you, the wood with its foliage applauds; hence the vine, with its silent shoot, gives thanks. ”

“ By cultivating rustic hearts with mild conversations, a crop is produced from a briar by the bounty of Felix. The Saxon, a fierce nation, living as it were after the manner of wild beasts, when you, O sacred One! ”

“ The brilliant firmament [6] puts forth its clear countenance, and the bright stars show their joy. The fruitful earth pours forth its gifts with varied increase, [7] when the year has well returned its vernal riches. ”