Pilgrimage of Our Lady of Christendom to Chartres - Song of the Promise

 

I want to love you unceasingly, more and more! Protect my promise Lord Jesus!

The "Song of Promise" rang out across Paris, sung by thousands of young Catholics. https://t.co/MaBfuTTvjv

— Catholic Conclave (@cathconclave) June 7, 2025

This song, composed by Father Jacques Sevin for the Scouts of France, has become the promise song of most Catholic movements. Its five verses follow his plan in order (God, the Church, the Fatherland, helping one's neighbor, observing the Law).

Set to the tune of a Christmas carol, "In the stable where you adore..." (author unknown), it was modified by Gustave Daumas in the name of "good taste" and educational significance. The Guides made it the official version in January 1946. [1]

It is now used in many settings, and the Scouts of Europe have also added a sixth verse (these two points contradicting the author's wishes, who had indicated that he did not want this song modified or used anywhere other than in a Scouting setting). 

Chorus — Verses: 1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6

1st verse

Before all, I pledge myself

On my honor,

And I pay homage to You

Of myself, Lord!

Chorus

I want to love You constantly, more and more,

Protect my promise, Lord Jesus!

2nd verse

I swear to follow You

As a proud Christian,

And I surrender

My whole heart to Yours.

or (For the Guides)

I swear to be proud

Of our faith;

To live in its Light

Close to You.

Chorus

3rd verse

Faithful to my Homeland

I will be;

All the days of my life,

I will serve.

Chorus

4th verse

I am one of your apostles,

And every day

I want to help others

For your love.

Chorus

5th verse

Your Rule has over us

A sacred right;

I am weak, you love me:

I will maintain!

or

Your law proclaims over me

A sacred right

Your strength is in my soul

I will maintain!

Chorus

6th verse

(Verse from the Scouts of Europe)

Across borders

I reach out my hand

The Europe of my brothers

Will be born tomorrow.

Chorus