Draw us in the Spirit’s Tether

This is a hymn about discipleship based in the Eucharist.

The words were written by English Anglican priest, author and social-justice advocate Percy Dearmer (1867-1936), and first published in 1931.

With meter 8.7.8.7.4.4.7, today it is almost always set to the tune UNION SEMINARY by Harold W. Friedell, which was first published in 1957.

Downloads

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PowerPoint slides

SATB choir and organ accompaniment arrangement by Harold W. Friedell S.J

Examples

Small choir with piano:

Choir with organ, professional recording:

Choir with organ, recorded in a church:

Lyrics

Traditional English

Draw us in the Spirit’s tether,
For when humbly in Thy name,
Two or three are met together
Thou are in the midst of them;
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Touch we now Thy garment’s hem.

As the brethren used to gather
In the name of Christ to sup,
Then with thanks to God the Father
Break the bread and bless the cup,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
So knit Thou our friendship up.

All our meals and all our living
Make as sacraments of Thee,
That by caring, helping, giving
We may true disciples be.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
We will serve Thee faithfully.

Modern English

Draw us in the Spirit’s tether,
For when humbly in Your name,
Two or three are met together
Your are in the midst of them;
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Touch we now Your garment’s hem.

As the brethren used to gather
In the name of Christ to sup,
Then with thanks to God the Father
Break the bread and bless the cup,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
So knit O Lord, our friendship up.

All our meals and all our living
Make as sacraments of You,
That by caring, helping, giving
We may true disciples be.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
We will serve You faithfully.