President-elect Biden quotes hymn written by St. Paul priest during acceptance speech

President-elect Joe Biden’s acceptance speech was heard around the world but a few lines were penned right here in Minnesota.

Biden quoted a hymn that he says captures America’s faith.

"On the last days of the campaign, I began thinking about a hymn," Biden said. "It goes like this: ‘And he will raise you up on eagle’s wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you shine like the sun and hold you in the palm of his hand.’"

The hymn, "On Eagle’s Wings," was written by St. Paul priest and University of St. Thomas professor the Rev. Michael Joncas in 1976.

"I have never had my phone ring so much," Father Joncas said.

The song has been performed at weddings and funerals around the world.

"What I hoped it would do is give people comfort and encouragement and it seems to have done that," Joncas said.

Joncas says he plans to write a letter to President-elect Biden to wish him well.