WHEATON COLLEGE JEAN KVAMME CHAIR PRESENTS

The First Hymn | Resurrecting a Song Buried for Millennia

A Documentary Film with John Dickson, Chris Tomlin, and Ben Fielding

This historic documentary, written by Dr. John Dickson, traces the journey of the oldest Christian hymn ever discovered, with a nearly 2000-year-old Greek lyric and melody buried in Egypt for centuries.

This rare find offers a glimpse into early Christian hymns, with the line “Patera hui on haggion, pneuma” referring to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. What makes this hymn remarkable is that it’s the only known Christian piece using ancient pagan notation, blending Christian beliefs with Greco-Roman musical traditions.

From Egypt to Nashville, this historical and musical journey featuring Chris Tomlin explores sacred songs and modern hits.

Before the film, come experience the original Greek arrangement performed live in the beautiful Armerding Concert Hall. To close the evening, lift your voice with the Wheaton College Concert Choir, Women’s Chorale, and Men’s Glee Club as we fill the hall with Chris Tomlin’s “First Hymn”!

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