I heard the voice of Jesus say (Vox dilecti)

Today is the Third Sunday of Lent.

In the appointed Gospel we hear the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. The idea of "living water" is a powerful one, and a favorite image for many generations.

Almost everyone will know the fine melody of "Kingsfold" for the text "I heard the voice of Jesus say." However, the "standard" tune for this text used to be "Vox dilecti" by John B. Dykes. It is notable for its striking shift from minor to major, and is a vigorous and engaging tune.

John Bacchus Dykes (born 'Dikes') (10 March 1823 – 22 January 1876) was an English clergyman and hymnist. He was ordained Deacon at York Minster in January 1848, in the following year he was appointed a minor canon of Durham Cathedral (an appointment he held until his death), and shortly thereafter to the office of precentor. He was a staunch champion of the Anglo-Catholic wing of the church.

Many of his hymns are well-known and loved, with classics like "Melita" (Eternal Father, strong to save) and "Niacea" (Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!) being amongst the most enduring.

The text was written by Horatius Bonar (19 December 1808 – 31 July 1889), a Scottish churchman and poet. He is principally remembered as a prodigious hymn-writer. In 1853 Bonar earned the Doctor of Divinity degree at the University of Aberdeen. He entered the Ministry of the Church of Scotland, and was elected Moderator of the General Assembly of the Free Church of Scotland in 1883.

The score is attached below, as well as photos John Dykes, Horatius Bonar, the church where he served, and his grave in Canongate Kirkyard.

The text is given in full in the first comment.