April 21 John of Damascus, early 8th century English translation by John M. Neale, 1818–1866 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ. (2 Corinthians 2:14 KJV) This hymn from the early eighth century is one of the oldest expressions found in most hymnals. Its origin is rooted in the liturgy of the Greek Orthodox Church. It was written by one of the famous monks of that church, John of Damascus, c. 676–c. 780. The celebration of Easter has always