Caelius Sedulius

5th Century

Born: Probably in Rome.

In early life, Sedulius devoted himself to heathen literature. It is believed he converted to Christianity relatively late in life, and that his friends included Gallieanus and Perpetua. His works were collected after his death by Asterius, who was consul in 494; they include:

• Carmen Paschale, a poem of the Gospel story
• Opus Paschale, a prose rendering of Carmen Paschale
• Elegia, a 110 line poem on the same subject
• Veteris et Novi Testamenti Collatio

Hymns:

1. A Solis Ortus Cardine
   • From East to West, from Shore to Shore
   • From Lands That See the Sun Arise
2. When Christ’s Appearing Was Made Known
3. Hostis Herodes impie
   • Why, Impious Herod, Shouldst Thou Fear