His Way Mine

This is a gospel-style hymn about the purpose which God has for each person. 

It was written by American Baptist brothers and music-evangelists, Richard Dee (Dick) Baker and Bo Baker:  Bo (1923-2010) wrote the words and Richard (1927-2011) composed the tune.

Originally written for a youth camp group in 1954, the song was first published in 1955 and became widely recognized among all age-groups.  It has been translated into several Asian languages.

The tune is un-named, in 3/4 time, and was originally published in the key of F.

Sheet music (piano score with guitar chord markings) was included in the book Sing'n'Celebrate  published by in 1971 by Word Incorporated of Texas. A two-page arrangement was published by the Dick Baker Company in 1955, ASIN: B001F21XIK.   Second-hand copies of both of these are occasionally available on Amazon. At the time of writing, though, sheet music has not been located via any other source.

Copyright was originally registered with 1960 Crescendo Publications in 1960, and they renewed it in 1988. Subsequently it was assigned to McKinney Music, Inc, and is administered for them by Music Services, Inc.   The latter now lists the song as owned by Lifeway Worship and published by Broadman Press:   it is likely that the song is included in one of their hymnals, but the exact one has not yet been located.

See the sheet music on Amazon

November / December 2015 newsletter

Welcome to this month's newsletter: It wasn't originally going to be a two-month edition, but in late November the number of requests for Advent and Christmas songs increased, so it seemed sensible to put them all together.

At the same time, I've been putting finishing touches to an e-book which will make some make some very popular material a lot more easily available: after a little more formatting and checking, it will be ready for distribution early in the New Year - watch this space!

---

Eagles Wings (I have carried you)

This is a folk-style hymn, which is inspired by Exodus 19:4 and Psalm 105.

It was written by Australian Roman Catholic priest, liturgist and folk-music composer, Fr Frank Andersen MSC.  The song was the title-track of the Eagles Wings collection, and is included in the Scripture in Song - The Music of Frank Andersen MSC collection, which is still available and which includes lead-sheet style sheet music.

The tune was written by Fr Andersen:  it is in a major key (G in the original printing), with a 4:4 time signature.

It is widely known in Australia and New Zealand, but less so in the rest of the world, where Michael Joncas' (On Eagles Wings) setting is more commonly used.

The Mass is Ended All go in Peace

This is a folk-style hymn for the end of Mass.  It is an example of a type of hymn written in the 1960s / 1970s to teach people about what was happening at points within the liturgy. Over time the need for this material has decreased, although these songs are still sometimes used in missionary countries, or when working with children.

It was written by South African born, secular Franciscian singer/song-writer Sebastian Temple (1928-1997).

Books it was published in include 20th Century Folk Hymnal Volume 1 and Hymns Old and New for the Irish Church: it appears that it is not included in any currently in-print hymn books, and no on-line examples have been found.

With meter 9.9.9.9 it is set to an un-named tune which was originally published in the key of Bb.

Infant Holy Infant Lowly

This is a Christmas hymn, which focuses on the baby Jesus.   It is a translation of based on a Polish Christmas carol, W Żlobie leży ktόż pobieży, which was probably written by Piotrowi Skardze (1536-1612), and was published in Spiewniczek Piesni Koscielne in 1908.  The words are based on Luke 2:1-20.

Most sources say that this translation was made in 1920 or 1921 by English organist and playwright Edith Margaret Gellibrand Reed (1885-1933).

With meter 8.7.7.8.8.7.7, it is set to a traditional Polish mazurka tune, W ZLOBIE LEZY - composer unknown.

Come, Come, Come to the Manger

The author and composer of this Christmas hymn are unknown:

• It was published unattributed in the American Catholic Hymnal (1913) - this is the source of the sheet music below.

• The Popular Carol Book (Richard J. Coleman, Geoffrey Court, Rosalind Russell), Bloomsbury Publishing, 1998 credits the words to John Robert, Abbot of Downside, but no other sources for this, or information about John Robert, have been found.

Lo, how a Rose E’er Blooming

This Christmas and Marian hymn was translated from a 16th century German carol: several versions and tunes are used, this translation was made by Theodore Baker in 1894.

With meter 7.6.7.6.6.7.6, it is almost always set to the tune ES IST EIN ROS, composer unknown and first published in 1599.

Lo He Comes with Clouds Descending

This is a hymn for Advent.  

The words were written by Charles Wesley (1707-1788), based on an earlier work by John Cennick (1718-1755).

With meter 8.7.8.7.4.7, tunes it is set to include:

• HELMSLEY - attributed Thomas Olivers, although there was a rumour that Olivers actually heard the tune on the street
  
• ST. THOMAS - Wade
  
• REGENT SQUARE by Henry T. Smart and first published in the Presbyterian Church's Psalms and Hymns for Divine Worship (1867),

The Lord Made Known to Israel

This hymn for Advent describes the people of God.   It appears to be based on 1 Peter 2:9 .

The words were written by Irish Roman Catholic priest Donal Murray.

It was published in the 1973 Veritas Hymnal - which is still in print.

With meter 86 86 76 86, it is set to the tune FOREST GREEN by English composer Ralph Vaughn-Williams (1872–1958), which is more commonly associated with "O Little Town of Bethlehem".

Children in Thy Presence Met

This is a hymn of petition for God's mercy.

It was is written by English poet John Gray (1866-1934).

Hymn-books which it has been published in include:

• The Westminster Hymnal, 1958
• Catholic Hymn Book, Nigeria

GodSongs newsletter - November 2015

October started quietly - but the got very busy as people looked for hymns and songs for important dates in early November: All Saints, All Souls and Remembrance Day.

I've also made great progress on a new project, which will make the contents on one of the site's most popular hymn-books a lot more widely available - more about that next month.

Now, for this months' requests:

Research requests during October

The Earth O Lord Rejoices

This is a hymn of praise and petition for God's favour.

It was written by American Roman Catholic priest Jeremiah William Cummings  (1824-1866), and first published in Songs for Catholic Schools and the Catechism in Rhyme (New York: D. & J. Sadlier, 1862). Subsequent publications include The Catholic Youth's Hymn Book (1871) and The De La Salle Hymnal: for Catholic schools and choirs (1913).

With meter 7.6.7.6.7.6.7.6, names of the tunes it has been set to are unknown.

Godhead Here in Hiding

This is a hymn about the Eucharist.   It is based on Thomas Aquinas' (1227) hymn ADORO TE DEVOTE.

This translation was made by English Roman Catholic poet and priest (Jesuit) Gerald Manley Hopkins SJ (1844-1889).

Tunes it is set to include:

• Plainchant, Mode V
• NOËL NOUVELET - a 16th century Christmas carol tune

The Spirit of God - Deiss

This is a hymn for Pentecost, or for commissioning. The words include clear references to both Isaiah 61:1-2 and Luke 4:18-19.

It written by French Roman Catholic priest Lucien Deiss (1921-2007), and published in 1970 by World Library Publications, in Deiss' collection, Biblical Hymns and Psalms, Volume II. 

It apparently has not been widely published in hymnals in the western world - but requests to this website show that it is known in various countries in Africa and Asia, at least.

The tune it is set to is sometimes known as CALLED TO PROCLAIM.

Image:   By Jacqui Barker
[CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

I've Touched the Hem of His Garment (She only touched) - Roots

This is a Gospel song about faith in Jesus power to heal.   It was inspired by Matthew 9:21, which mentions the woman who believed that she would be healed if she touched the hem of Jesus' clothing.     Some later publications simply called it "The Hem of His Garment).

It was written by  American Pentecostal music-teacher and songwriter, George F. Root (1820-1895).

With meter 10.6.10.6 with refrain, it is almost always set to the tune which Root originally composed for it, which does not have a separate name.

There are many songs with similar themes and titles - this is one of the few which is definitely in the public domain, but nevertheless an on-line recording of it has not been found: please leave a comment below if you know of one.

Now the Green Blade Riseth (Love Is Come Again)

This is a hymn about Jesus coming, and his resurrection. 

It was written by John M. C. Crum (1872-1958) and first published in the Oxford Book of Carols, 1928.   This combination of dates means that the while the text is still copyright in the UK and other countries where copyright is based on number of years since the creator's death - and copyright of the text is held by Oxford University Press - the situation in the USA is less clear, and depends on when it was published and either copyright was registered and renewed.

With meter 11 10 10 11, it is almost always set to NOËL NOUVELET, which is a 15th Century French melody and sometimes called FRENCH CAROL in English.

The original title end with with word "Riseth", but many contemporary recordings present it as "Now The Green Blade Rises".

Although carols are usually associated with Christmas, this work is equally appropriate at Easter.

You are my People

This is a hymn about the Eucharist.

It was written by American Roman Catholic at-the-time Glenmary nun Germaine Habjan (b 1943) (ref), and included in the first volume of the Hymnal for Young Christians, released in 1966 by F.E.L. (Friends of English in the Liturgy).

No further publications, or alternative sources of sheet music, have been found.

Seeking Heaven Alone

This is a hymn about seeking heaven.   

It was included in the 1913 American Catholic Hymnal, with the lyrics attributed to "M.H>" and the tune to I Williams (or perhaps the other way around) and copyright 1913 "P.J.K.&S.".

My hand in Mother Mary's / O Mother Mary

This is a hymn about being accompanied by Mary.

It was requested by a reader, who learned it in a convent school in Ireland in the 1950s.  The lyrics were found on a Facebook page, but no other information (author, composer, tune, publications) have been located.

If you have any information at all about it, please leave a comment below.

Onward Christian Soldiers

This hymn was written in the early 1860s, for children to sing while marching to a schools' festival on Pentecost-Monday in Yorkshire.    It is based on various New Testament references to the the idea of being a "solider for Christ".

The words were written by English Anglican, and later Roman Catholic, priest Sabine Baring-Gould (1834-1924) and it was first published in 1865.   It later became very popular with the Salvation Army.

With meter 6.5.6.5 D with refrain, it is almost-always set to the tune ST GERTRUDE, which was composed for the text in 1871 by Arthur S. Sullivan (1842–1900) - a prominent composer who wrote many works, both sacred and secular, including musicals in collaboration with W S Gilbert.

Sing a New Song to the Lord - Mayhew-McCrimmon

This book was edited by Kevin Mayhew (general editor) and Luke Connaughton (literary editor), assisted by liturgical advisor Paulinus Milner OP.

It was published by Mayhew-McCrimmon Ltd of Southend-on-Sea, England.   The first printing was in 1970, and there were subsequent reprints in both October and November 1970 and April 1971.   Printing was done by P J Ralph, also of Southend-on-Sea, Essex.

It has a Nihil Obstat from J D Donnelly Censor, and an Imprimatur from C D Creede, Vicar General.

There is a Foreword by "the editors", which explains the links between the material in the book and the 3-year liturgical calendar adopted by the Roman Catholic church following Vatican II: The contents follow this closely, and lists one or more hymns that are based specifically on the readings from each Sunday.

The book contains 107 hymns, all in English.   A surprising number are by Luke Connaughton himself or by Peter Icarus or John Smith - both of which are now believed to be non-de-plumes for Connaughton.  It is likely that this is due to the lack of English-language material to complement the new lectionary which was available at the time when the book was compiled.

Each hymn/song is accompanied by a short phrase which described the key scriptural themes which it addresses.   There are indexes by first line, week in the liturgical cycle, season / Mass part.    However song-titles are not included, and there is no index of titles separate from the first lines.

There were two editions (peoples and organ) - the listing below is based on the People's Edition, 2001.

The book is now out-of-print, but copies are usually available from Amazon (UK and Ireland).

Keep Step with the Master

This is a hymn to encourages Christians to live faithfully with Jesus.

It was published under the name Ida Scott Taylor, which is one of the pseudonyms used by Frances Jane (Fanny) Crosby (1820-1915).

With meter 11.11.11.11 with refrain, it is set to the tune KEEP STEP WITH THE MASTER, composed in 1894 by American W A Ogden (1841-1897) - and sometimes known simply as OGDEN.

Don Bosco, Father and Guide (Father for Many People)

This is an anthem about Don Bosco, the founder of the Salesian order.

It appears to have been translated from an Italian-language work titled "Padre, Maestro ed Amico" - or possibly from the German-language "Vater, du Vater von so vielen".

The original language, author and translator are unknown.   The tune appears to have been composed by Angelo Lagorio (details unknown). An indication of the tune in sol-fa notation is available here.

IS THERE DEMAND FOR SHEET MUSIC - IT WAS ON PAGES 15 ADN 17 OF A BOOK WHICH IS NOW DOWNLOADED TO "D:\Google Drive\Blogs\GodSongs-old\EvvivaGiovanni - Hymns about Don Bosco.pdf"

Songs and Hymns Newsletter, September 2015

School has started again in the Northern hemisphere, and the number of hymn research requests really picked up during the 2nd half of the month. A few are surprisingly out-of-season (eg for Pentecost hymns) - but on the site overall hymns for harvest-festival and creation-time have been popular.

And as well as research requests, the end of September saw a lot of work on a collection of hymns and songs for the feast of St Thérèse of Lisieux.

Hymn and song research requests this month

From Clear High Mansions Above

This hymn for the feast of St Thérèse of Lisieux is attributed to the Carmelite Breviary.

The author is unknown.

With meter 11.11.11.5, it is set to the tune LUCE DIVINA RUTILANTIS AULAE.

My Song of Today

This hymn is based on the French-language poem 'Mon Chant d'Aujourd' by St Thérèse of Lisieux.

It was adapted by English Roman Catholic pastoral musician Mike Stanley (1965-2013) from the translation by C L Emery.

It was commissioned by the Roman Bishop’s Conference of England and Wales at the time of the visit of the relics of St Therese to England, Sept-Oct 2009.

The tune is also by Mike Stanley.

 

A Song for St Therese

This song written by Eugene Tan, was inspired by St Therese of Lisieux.

There is a Rose in the Garden / Children of the Rose

This hymn was written by Dan Rutledge as part of the Mass of St. Thérèse.   It was dedicated to "Marianne, Mom, Mary and their Families"

It is © 1998-2002 Dan Rutledge, London Ontario Canada

Little Flower of Heaven / Shower Down Many Roses Upon Us

This hymn about St Thérèse of Lisieux is quoted in several places on the internet, but no information about the author, tune or source has been found.   

If you have any information about it - even just memories of singing in in a particular place - please leave a comment below.

Chosen Flower, Rose of Love

This is a hymn about St Thérèse of Lisieux.

It was either collected or written by Sister Debra-Therese Carroll CTC, and is included in her book , From Her Heart to Yours, published in 1997.

With meter 8.7.8.7.D, tunes it has been set include:

• ODE TO JOY - from Beethoven's 9th Symphony
• HYFRYDOL by Welch textile worker and composer, Rowland H. Prichard (1811-1887)

They hymn does not appear to have been published in any other hymnals.

Prayer to St Therese / Please Send Another Rose

This hymn was written by Canadian Roman Catholic musician and composer, Dan Rutledge as part of his Mass of St. Thérèse.

It is © 1998-2002 Dan Rutledge, London Ontario Canada, and for considerable time it was possible to download audio tracks and buy sheet music from his website.   However these are no longer available.  This may be because the Mass-setting became unable to be used when the Catholic church adopted a new English-language translation of the Mass in 2010.   

Hail this Joyful Day's Return

This is a joyful hymn for Pentecost.   It is based on Beata Nobis Gaudia, a 4th century work by Hilary of Poitiers. 

The words were translated by Scottish Presbyterian-raised, Roman Catholic convert,  Scottish advocate and hymn writer. Robert Campbell (1814-1868), and the hymn was first published in 1850.

Hymn books where it has been published include:

• St. Andrew's Hymnal (1850)
• Scottish Episcopal Collection (1858)
• Annus Sanctus, Hymns of the Church for the Ecclesiastical Year, (1884)
• A Treasury of Catholic Song (1915)
• Hymns and Songs of Praise for Public and Social Worship (1874)
• The Nigerian Catholic Hymn Book (1976) - using modern language
• Hymnal according to the use of the Episcopal Church (1982)

With meter 7.7.7.7 (sometimes with Alleluias), tunes it has been set to include:

• SONNE DER GERECHTIGKEIT - adapted from a fifteenth-century folk song for use in a hymnal in 1566
• BEATA NOBIS GAUDIA - plainsong in Mode 1 from the 14th century.

Note, however, that the early publications set it as three verses on eight lines, so likely used different tunes.

Sound the Bell of Holy Freedom

This was the official hymn for the World Meeting of the Families in 2015.  The text uses a number of motifs associated with Philadelphia, the city where the meeting is held, and from the life of the Holy Family.

The words were written by by Roman Catholic priest Fr Andrew Ciferni (b 1942) O.Praem (Norbertine).

With meter 87.87.87, it is set to a tune PHILADELPHIA, composed for the hymn by American musician and composer Normand Gouin (b 1970).

God Said 'Set My People Free'

Th is a short praise-style chorus based on Exodus 5:1 and Isaiah 58:6.

The author and composer are unknown. It was published in 1973 in Songs of Praise, with no attribution.

If you have any information about it, especially who wrote the song, and what tune it is sung to, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.

It is not the same as the longer hymn with the same title by Phyllis C. Spiers (1920 - 1995) which has verses starting "He's able, he's able ..." - for which copyright in the USA was registered in 1950 by Gospel Publishing House, and is now assigned to Lorenz Corporation.

O Food of Angels

This is a hymn about the Eucharist.

The author, composer and the tune is is sung to are unknown.  It is likely based on a translation of (a section of) the Latin hymn Panis Angelicus, and it has been found in the Nigerian Catholic Hymn Book.

Ag An bPósadh Bhí I gCána (The Blessed Wedding at Cana)

This is an Irish-language communion hymn about the miracle at the Wedding of Cana.

It was  included in Dánte Dé, an Irish-language hymnal published in 1928, where it is attributed "Ó na daoinibh" (from the people) Maighréad ní Annagáin (1875–1952).

Hymn and song requests - August 2015

This hymn request round-up post lists hymns that people have asked about using the hymn research request tool during the last month or so.

August has been even quieter than July, so progress has been made on some of the requests from earlier in the year.

Shepherd of my Soul

This is a hymn about dedication to Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

It was written by American hymn-writer, composer and worship leader Martin (Marty) Nystrom (b. 1956).  The first publication was in 1986 by Maranatha Music. Today copyright is owned by Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publishing and administered by Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing, Inc.

The song has been translated into a number of languages, including Afrikaans (Herder Wat My Lei), German (Hirte führe mich) and Korean.   Alternative English-language titles include "I Will Follow" and "We Will Follow".

Christ is the Vine

This hymn  is based on images of Christ as the vine, from John15.

It was written by John Swertner (1746-1813) and Johann Muehlmann (1573-1613).

The hymn was published in some words-only Morovian hymn books in the 19th century.  No information about tunes that it was sing to has been located.

If you have any information about tunes that it has been set to, please leave a message in the Comments section near the bottom of the page.

Wisdom Calls Throughout the City / We eat the Bread of Teaching (Wisdom's Feast)

This is a hymn about wisdom, based on Proverbs 9.

It  was written by Dutch-American Roman Catholic liturgist, composer and publisher Omer Westendorf (1916-1997), and first published by World Library Publications in 1998.

It is set to a tune is called WISDOM'S FEAST, written by Jerry Ray Brubaker (1946-).

An arrangement for choir (SATB) and guitar or keyboard is still available (link below).

Let's all Join Together in Communion Sweet (Walk in the Light)

This folk-style hymn is set to the traditional English tune THERE WAS A FARMER WHO HAD A DOG aka "BINGO".

It is very similar to Damian Lundy's "The Spirit lives to set us free" - but with a first verse focussed on the Eucharist.   However it is published as "author unknown" in the 1977 Hymns Old and New: A Hymnbook for the Irish Church which Lundy co-edited, so it's highly likely that he was not the author of this particular version - and it's not clear even which version was the original.

Take, Eat, This is my Body / Eat of My Flesh and Live - Simmons

This is a hymn about the Eucharist.  The lyrics are all based directly on scripture, combining phrases from Matt 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, Isaiah 1:18, John 3:16 and 1 Corinthians 11.  Alternative titles include "Take Eat", "Broken For You", "This Is My Body"  

It was written by Paul Simmons was first released in 1985.   More recently has been published in Songs of Fellowship Volume 1, published by Kingsway Music in England, and it is in a number of editions of Mission Praise from 1987 onwards.

It is not the same as Remember Me by Joe Wise, which starts "Take and eat, this is my body", or Take and Eat by Michael Joncas / James Quinn.

The unnamed tune, also by Simmons, has  3/4 time signature.   In the key of C, the first few notes of the melody are E G CC D EF G F_ E_ D D_ with accompanying chords C / G / Am / F / C / G.

I Need Thee Every Hour (I Come to Thee)

This hymn is a statement of faith and dependence on God, inspired by John 15:5.

The verses were written by American poet and housewife Annie S.Hawks (1835-1918). The chorus and the tune were written by her pastor, Robert Lowry (1826-1899). The hymn was first published in 1873.

With meter 6.4.6.4 with refrain, the tune is simply called NEED or sometimes I NEED THEE EVERY HOUR.

Galilee Song

This hymn about the call to discipleship was written by Australian Roman Catholic priest and liturgist Fr Frank Andersen. 

It was originally the title track of The Galilee Song collection and is also included in the Scripture in Song - The Music of Frank Andersen MSC collection, which is still available.   Both of there include sheet music for the song.

Some people believe that the song was inspired when Andersen saw fishing boats in the suburb of Island Bay in Wellington, New Zealand while he was making a retreat there.   It's not clear if there was any basis to this story.

The tune is in a major key (C in the original printing, with chords in G), with a 4/4 time signature.

 

Holy Queen we Bend Before Thee

This Marian hymn is particularly suitable for the feast of the Assumption.    

Its original source is unclear: hymnals it is published in include

• The Catholic School and Sodality Hymnal, Philadelphia, 1900
• The Westminster Hymnal, 1912, No 104.  This attributes it to S Casimir, translated by Rev E Vaughan CSSR, includes a lot more verses than the later publications, and sets it to the tune SICILIAN MARINERS HYMN
• The Crown Hymnal (Boston: Ginn and Company, 1912) - which attributes it to L. J. Kavanagh and James M. McLaughlin, 
• The American Catholic Hymnal (1913), which says it was translated by Edward Casswall.
• The St Andrew Hymnal, Glasgow (1964) which also attributes it to Edward Casswall.
• The Nigerian Catholic Hymn Book, 1988

From these publication dates, it is safe to assume that the hymn is now in the public domain.

There are two versions in use:   one has a chorus, which the other has verses only, and has the "chorus" section included at the start of the third verse. The slides below are for the version with chorus, while the sheet music is for the combined version, set to a tune by George Herbert (d 1906.

Strong and Constant

This is a hymn about God's love 

It was written by by Australian Roman Catholic priest and folk-musician, Fr Frank Andersen, and originally published in the Eagles Wings collection which was released  in 1979.  It is  also included in the Scripture in Song - The Music of Frank Andersen MSC collection which is still available.   Both of these books include sheet music for the song - and they are the only sources that have been found.

The word "Yahweh" in the first verse is problematic in some situations: sometimes it is changed to "your Lord" or just "God".

The hymn is set to an unnamed tune, which was written by Fr Andersen.  This it is in a major key (G in the original printing), with a 6:8 time signature - although it is generally sung with a leisurely pace .   In the key of G, the first few notes of the melody are D D D DEF G E D_  with accompanying chords G / D / C /  G.

My God and is Thy Table Spread / My God Thy Table Now is Spread

This is a hymn about the Eucharistic feast.

The words were written by Philip Doddridge (1702-1751) but not first published until 1755.

With meter LM, tunes it is set to include:

• ROCKINGHAM, by Carl P E Bach, arranged by Edward Miller (1735-1807) - most commonly
• BROMLEY by Jeremiah Clarke (1700)
• DAS WALT' GOTT VATER by Daniel Vetter (1713).

Noah Found Grace in the Eyes of the Lord

This Gospel song is inspired by the story of Noah and the flood, from Genesis 6:8.

It was written by architect, professor and folk-song writer, Robert Watson (Bob) Schmertz (1898-1975), from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.   It was first published in 1951.

It has been recorded by a number of artists, including the Stadler Brothers.  

Mo Ghrá-sa Mo Dhia (My Love, My God)

This is an Irish-language hymn about love. It was written by Irish Roman Catholic priest, song-writer and performer Liam Lawton (b 1959). It was included in his 1998 CD, The Sacred Story, which is about Blessed Edmund Rice.

Sheet music was published in Seinn Alleluia (which is still available for purchase).

The song is now in the repertoire of many Irish wedding and funeral singers - some are shown in the examples below.

Celtic cross and reputed site of "St Gordian's Kirk" (Chris Eilbeck) / CC BY-SA 2.0

Song and hymn requests during July 2015

This is the second hymn request round-up post, listing the hymns that people have asked about using the hymn research request tool in the last month or so.

As usual, July has been quite a quiet month: It's summer holiday time in the northern hemisphere so many church music programmes are on a break. And a number of schools in the south are taking a winter holiday around now, too. But there have still been 18 new requests, and a number of outstanding requests from previous months have also been worked on, as well.

Vaster Far Than Any Ocean

This is a folk-style hymn about the extent of God's love.

The author is unknown.

The tune is a Russian folk melody, "Iz-za ostrova na strezhen" or "Volga, Volga mat' rodnaya", which was used for a song about a Cossack leader who led an uprising in the 17th century.  The composer and when it was written are unknown, but it was popular in the 1890s, so is definitely in the public domain now.  The tune has been used in a number of ways, eg for a Dutch nursery rhyme and for the 1960's Australian folk-song "The Carnival is Over".

Image from PxFuel

O Help of Christians (Mother dear) / O Queen of Peace to thee we pray

This is  a hymn of petition to Our Lady under her title Help of Christians, asking for peace.

It was published in the Sydney Catholic Weekly in 1942, with attribution  "Music by a Sister of Mercy; words by P.J.B." (ref).   It is not clear if this was the first publication - but it would make sense, in the context of World War II.

It was later included in the Veritas Hymnal, published in Ireland in 1973 with the words attributed to P J Brennan,and the tune named as AUXILIATRIX CHRISTIANORUM by V O'Brien.  This may or may not have been the same tune as was used in the Australian publication.

There Shall be Showers of Blessing

This hymn uses raindrops to as a metaphor for God's mercy. It was written by Daniel Webster Whittle (1840-1901), and also published under the pseudonym El Nathan. The text is based on Ezekiel 34:26. It was first published in 1883.

With meter 8.7.8.7 with refrain, it is set to the tune SHOWERS OF BLESSING by James McGranahan (1840-1907).

God Moves in a Mysterious Way

This is a hymn about mystery of God’s power. It is useful in times of difficulty or distress.

The words were written by English evangelical poet and hymn-writer, William Cowper (1731-1800).  It was first published in 1774.

With common meter (8.6.8.6), tunes it is set to include:

• DUNDEE, from the Scottish Psalter, 1651
• LONDON NEW from The Psalmes of David in Prose and Meeter, 1635
• ST ANNE by William Croft

Within Thy Sacred Heart

This is a this hymn about the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The author is unknown.

The tune it is set to is attributed David Gregor Cormer and first published in Gross Catholisches Gesängbuch (the so-called “Great Catholic Hymnal”) in 1631.

Hymn-books that it has been published in include:

• Diocesan Hymnal: Hymns for Monthly Devotions Part 2, 1928
• Pius X Hymnal, 1953

There is also a record of the first verse being published in an Irish newspaper in 1918, here.   And the full text is included in a pamphlet "Visits to Jesus in the Tabernacle" from 1897, which is available here.   Based in this, it is assumed that the words are now in the public domain.

Holy Light on Earth’s Horizon

This hymn about the Immaculate Conception is often used on the 8th of December.

Although some publications credit it as a translation by Edward Caswall, it is not in his usual style, and there is a credible argument that it was actually written by Benedictine monk Dom Fabian Duggan, who was at the time at Fort Augustus Abbey in the Scottish highlands, but was originally from Australia (ref).   This claim is supported by this article which Duggan himself wrote.

With meter of 87 87 D, it was originally set to the tune ALMA LUX by Dom Bernard Sole OSB.  Other tunes that it has been set to include:

• LUX EOI by Arthur Sullivan (1874)
• LOCHLEVEN - from The Sacred Melodeon, 1848
• BLAENWERN by William Penfro Rowlands (1860–1937)
• HYFRYDOL by Rowland H. Prichard (1830)
• ABBOTS LEIGH by Cyril Vincent Taylor (1907-1991)
• TOUCH OF HEAVEN; Fr. J. Roel Lungay, © 1997
  
• ODE TO JOY, Beethoven

Bread of the World in Mercy Broken

This is a hymn about the Eucharist.  It originally had the subtitle "Before the Sacrament."

The words were written by English clergyman Reginald Heber (1783–1826), and first published in "Hymns Written and Adapted to the Weekly Service of the Church Year" in 1827.

With meter 9.8.9.8, tunes it is set to include:

• EUCHARISTIC HYMN by John S. B. Hodges (1830-1915) - which was composed for it.
  
• RENDEZ Á DIEU by Louis Bourgeois (1543, and revised 1551).

Renewal Song (Father I Thank You)

This is a hymn of thanks.

It was written by Australian Roman Catholic priest Fr Frank Andersen.  It was originally published in the Eagles Wings collection and was later included in the Scripture in Song - The Music of Frank Andersen MSC  which is still available.   The music booklets for both of these collections include sheet music for the song.

The un-named tune was written by Fr Andersen:  it is in a major key (D in the original printing), with a 4/4 time signature.

Love is a Flag Flown High / Castle of my Heart / Joy is the Flag

This is a children's action song and praise chorus about joy and love.

The author and composer are unknown. This blog says it was an early song used in the Charismatic movement within mainline churches.  If you have any more information about it, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.

Books that the song was in include: 

• Scripture in Song Volume 2 in New Zealand, 1981, with copyright listed as unknown.
• Songs of Praise, Servant Music / The Word of God - Michigan, USA, 1982  (source).

Alternative versions of the words include "There is a flag flying high ...", "There is a flag that's flown".

Verses may be added for other attributes (joy, love, hope, peace) as desired.

Alternative titles include "Joy is the the Flag" and similar phrases.

It is set to an un-named tune, in 4/4 time, in a major key: when set in D, the range goes from low A to high D, making it fairly challenging to sing.

All Ye Nations / All You Nations Sing Out Your Joy

This is a joyous hymn of exhortation to praise God.  It is very closely based on the 1963 Grail translation of Psalm 66 (65).

It was composed by French Spiritan priest Lucien Deiss (1921-2007), was first published by J S Paluch (the predecessor of World Library Publications) in Biblical Hymns and Psalms, Volume 1, 1965.

Hymnals it is published in include:

• Alleluia! Amen
• Celebration Hymnal for Everyone - McCrimmond

A 2 and 3 part choral arrangement is still available form WLP.

The unnamed tune has a 6/8 time-signature.  In the key of F, the first few notes of the melody are F FA_ A GAG FDF G_ with accompanying chords F / C / Dm / Gm / 

Song and hymn requests - June 2015

Introducing hymn request round-ups

The hymn research request tool lets you suggest hymns and songs that you are looking for, so that experienced researchers can try to track them down.

An increasing number of requests are being made each month, and many hymns and songs have been added based on these requests. But getting in touch with the people who made the request has been difficult: Many don't provide their email address, of those who do, a surprising number of addresses are wrong, or mark emailed replies as spam.

Starting today, a different approach is being tried.  Song and hymn request roundup posts will list  requests made since the last round-up.  Mostly likely these posts will be monthly, but will depend on your feedback - leave a comment at the bottom of this page letting us know what you thinks of this approach.

Hymns and songs requested in June 2015

Let us Break Bread Together at the Altar

This folk-style hymn about unity in the Eucharist was composed by Robert Blue n the 1960s.

It was recorded on "Run, Come See" and published in the Hymnal for Young Christians, Volume 2, by Friends of English in the Liturgy (FEL) Publications in 1966.   It was also published in the United Kingdom in the 20th Century Folk Hymnal Volume 1.   Today, copyright is owned by F.E.L, and administered by Lorenz Corporation.

It is one of a number of hymns that were written about the Roman Catholic Mass in the period after Vatican II, which focus on educating people about what is happening at each stage in the liturgy - in this case at the Offertory.

Today it is not regularly used, partly because this type of education is no longer necessary, and partly due to theological concerns about the second verse: people gather and offer bread and wine, but Catholic belief is that what they eat and drink is no longer simply bread and wine.

However some people have used it as a general-purpose song about Christian unity by:

• Leaving out the current verses 1-3
• Starting with a new verse "Let us gather together, at the altar, gather together we are one .."
• Using the current fourth and fifth verses, viz  "Join hands" and "Love one another ... ".

The meter is 11.8.11.8.   The tune was composed specifically for this song, and is un-named.   It is in 4/4 time, and was originally published in the key of Emajor, and it can be playeg on guitar using only 4 chords (E, B7, C#m and F#m, in the original arrangement).

It has no relationship to the Afro-American spiritual Let us Break Bread Together on our Knees.

Lord Jesus Christ Be Present Now

This is a hymn of petition for Jesus' presence. It is based on "Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend", a hymn by Wilhelm II, Duke of Sachs-Weimar (1598-1662)which was published in 1651.

It was translated to English by Catherine Winkworth (1827-1878) and first published in The Chorale Book for England, 1863.

With meter 8.8.8.8, it is set to the tune HERR JESU CHRIST attributed to Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750), which was published in the Cantionale Germanicum in 1628.

There's a Light Shining Forth

This is a praise-and-worship chorus about the army of God, experienced as a light shining forth.

The author and composer  are unknown.  The song was published, unattributed, in Scripture in Song II in 1981, and one reference has been located to someone remembering it from the 1970s.

If you have any information about the song, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.

My Faith Looks up to Thee

This hymn about faith is a call to repentance.

It was written by American teacher and later Congregational minister Ray Palmer (1808-1887), and first published in 1830.

With meter, 6.6.4.6.6.6.4, it is set to the tune OLIVET by Lowell Mason (1792-1872).

O Lord with Wondrous Mystery (O Lord in this Great Mystery)

This is an Offertory hymn.   In English-as-a-foreign-language situations, it is sometimes presented as "O Lord in this great mystery".

The words were written by American at-the-time Roman Catholic (Sulpician) priest and later historian, academic and war correspondent, Michael Valentine Gannon (1927–2017).

With meter 86. 86. 88. 86, it was originally set to and set to an unnamed tune by Hendrik F. Andriessen (1892-1981). It was first published by World Library Publications in the 1955 People's Daily Mass Book.

Today, an arrangement for 3-part Choir with optional congregation part, C Instrument, and organ can be purchased on-line directly from from WLP  or from Sheet Music Plus

It is included in GIA Publications Catholic Community Hymnal and in the St Michael Hymnal.

Go ye Afar Go Teach all Nations

This is the Missionary Hymn of the Holy Ghost Fathers, and exhorts missionaries to take their message to the ends of the earth.   However the lyrics are not specific to the Spiritan (Holy Ghost) Fathers, and it can be used by lay-people and ones from any religious order.

The words were written by Fr James Burke CSSP (1877-1958), and the chorus is based on Romans 10:15-18 "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace.."

The hymn is set to a tune by French composer Charles Gounod (1818-1893).

It was published in the Holy Ghost Hymnal in 1954, but may have been in use before that.

The first line is occasionally mis-quoted as "Go ye Afar and Teach all Nations"

Gifts of Bread and Wine

This Offertory hymn was written and composed by English teacher Christine Byrne McCann.

It was first published by Kevin Mayhew in Hymns Old and New - A Hymn Book for the Irish Church in 1977, although today CCLI list it as copyright 1978.

It is still included in current editions of Catholic Hymns Old and New.

The unnamed tune has a 4/4 time signature.   In the key of D, the first few notes are F G F E E_ / G A G F D_  with accompanying chords D / Em / A / G / D.

Shepherd Song (Jesus, good shepherd, call us by name)

The author and composer of this hymn are unknown. They hymn is based on Psalm 23. It may be of Irish origin.

If you have any information about it, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.

Praise we Now the Lord our God

This is a hymn of praise, with a focus on the Trinity.

The words were written by Scottish Roman Catholic priest and academic David McRoberts (1912-1978).   In 1961, it was described by McRoberts as an English-language alternative to the Te Deum that was suitable for congregational singing, and  having an imprimatur from the Diocese of Glasgow (ref).   It was included in a radio service in 1957 (ref), so must have been written before then.

Originally the hymn was set to a tune by Catholic priest William McClelland (1909-1972) of Corstorphine - although no recordings of this have been located.  Since then, it has been set to DIX (Kocher) by Conrad Kocher (1838).

It is included in the Celebration Hymnal for Everyone, and this is the only known source of sheet music.

You Were Already Close to Me

This is a hymn about intimacy with God.

The origin, author and composer are unknown, and no published versions have been found.

If you have any information about it, especially who wrote the song, and what tune it is sung to, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.

Mighty Revelation / All Over the World

This is a song for Pentecost about the coming of the Holy Spirit.

The first recording that has been located was made in 1967 (ref) by the Scottish evangelist Cameron Family with Roy Turner:  the label of this album says the words and music are © Roy Turner.   However a pressing in 1969 (ref) is labelled "Words and music © Cameron Bros and Roy Turner".

English born and raised Turner (b 1940) was a journalist, who joined the Methodist and then Pentecostal church, and became deeply involved in the charismatic "Glory" movement (ref).

 

As well as recording, the Cameron Family with Roy Turner toured internationally, which may explain why the song was published in:

• Songs of Praise (Scripture in Song, Auckland, New Zealand, 1973)
• Hymns Old and New for the Irish Church, Kevin Mayhew Ltd, 1977
• 20th Century Folk Hymnal Vol 4  (Kevin Mayhew Ltd, England 1978)
• Let's Just Praise the Lord - 1978 ( Community Church, Maadi, Egypt).
• Calameo, Nigeria 1979

In each of these books, the song was published without any attribution.

It was also published in Songs of Fellowship by Kingsway Music Eastbourne UK in 1984.  This book states that the song is copyright them in 1984.   Based on the earlier recordings, the song was written a lot earlier than that, and English copyright law (unlike American) has no way to "register" items at a later date. 

Clearly Turner was heavily involved with the song's creation:  he almost certainly wrote or co-wrote the words.  But it is equally likely that other members of the group were at-least as involved with the tune - and that the tune at least gradually developed from being sung over some years. 

Many different variations have been used in later verses, including: All over this room... All over us all... All over our school ..., etc.    Also, there are number of slight variations in the tune which is in common use.

Come Let us Twine / O Mary, Take the Humble Crown

The origin of this Northern hemisphere hymn for the month of May is unknown. Books which is was in include "The Sunday School Prayer and Hymn Book" which was edited and published by Eugene Cummiskey, Philadelphia, Penn in 1871 - and based on this it is assumed to now be in the public domain.

It was included in books published in the 1930s (in The Ordinary of the Mass and Complete Manual of Hymns for Parochial Schools - from Public Press, Philadelphia, 1935 - and others), and there are reports of it being sung in the USA during the 1950s.

However the tune to which it was sung is unknown.

Sound of His Trumpet

This is a hymn about Christ as the bridegroom of the church. The author and source are unknown.

At first glance, the language used suggests that it was written prior to the 20th century and so is likely now in the public domain. But a number of videos now on YouTube show that the song is mainly known in India - so it was perhaps translated from another language, or written by someone who has studied English.

This page gives the lyrics in and Malayalam (an Indian language) English.

They Were All Used of God

This is a short children's song based on Judges 3:31. 

The author is unknown.  It was published in Action Song for Boys and Girls, Volume Four in 1955 set to a tune by American hymn-writer Hubert Platt Main (1839-1925), which is also used for the song "Little Friends of Jesus".

If you have any information about it, especially who wrote the song, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.

Only a Boy Named David

This is a children's hymn, based on the story of David the shepherd boy who killed the giant Goliath, using only a small sling - as told in 1 Samuel 17.
 

The words and tune were written by Australian Salvation Army officer Arthur Arnott (1870-1941), and first published in 1931.

In Bread We Bring You Lord

This is hymn about the Eucharist.  It is often used as an offertory hymn, but it fits a variety of themes (Eucharist, unity, reconciliation). 

It was written by English Catholic priest Kevin Nichols (1929-2006), and first published in 1976 in Kevin Mayhew's 20th Century Folk Hymnal, Volume 3.

The unnamed tune by Nichols has a 4/4 time signature.   In the key of F the first few notes are C F G A AA A.

Kevin Nichols

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Monsignor Kevin Nichols (1929-2006) was a Roman Catholic priest of the diocese of Hexham and Newcastle in England. A teacher for most of his working life, he was also widely recognised as a poet and writer.

He was born at Wallsend, and ordained in to the priesthood 1954. He achieved a double first in English at Cambridge University in 1956, and then was appointed to the first of many teaching positions, where his subjects included English and theology / religious education, in whihc he was a pioneer in the days after Vatican II.

He was National Adviser for Religious Education in England and Wales between and 1973 and 1980, and also became a member of the International Committee for English in the Liturgy (ICEL). He was also appointed as an as associate professor of the Catholic University of America in Washington as his international influence grew.

In 1981, he retired from teaching, returned to England and was appointed as a parish priest.

Nichols was widely respected as a poet and author, and published many books and articles.

His hymns include:

• In Bread We Bring You Lord (for which he also wrote the melody)
• Lord, our God, O Lord our Father
• Our Father, we have Wandered
• I have Counted the Cost

and some are still included in current hymn books including

• McCrimmon Publications Celebration Hymnal for Everone 
• Kevin Mayhew's Hymns Old and New

Other works include 'Stations of Affliction' a poetic meditation on the Way of the Cross which was set to music by Irish composer Declan Townsend, and three volumes of poetry:

• Begotten in Silence (1978)
• Canticum Novum (1991)
• Sequences (2000)
• Decryptions - published after his death.

His Religious Education writing included:

• Refracting the Light: Learning the Languages of Faith (1997)
• Pathways to God: The Spiritual Classics (2001).
• Cornerstones (1973), a reflection on the principles of religious education,

He also contributed to writing the moral section of the Catechism of the Catholic Church published in 1992.

He died at Newcastle upon Tyne after a long illness, and is buried at Minsteracres Monastery, Northumberland.

This is my Command (Commandment) I Give You

This is a hymn, originally written for children, about the commandment to love.   It is based on John 15:11-12.

It was written in New Zealand by Mary Sara (details TBA), a lay Roman Catholic teacher who was involved in religious education syllabus development.

The song was published in the 20th Century Folk Hymnal volume III, published by Kevin Mayhew Ltd in England in 1976.  This book attributes it to "Millie Sara"in the text, and "Mollie Sarah" in the acknowledgements section.

The song was used in Catholic schools in New Zealand during the 1970s - and is now being sung at some funerals in New Zealand.   There is also some evidence of is being used  (perhaps not widely). in Ireland (ref).

Gift of Finest Wheat

This is a hymn about the Eucharist.  The phrase "Gift of Finest Wheat" is from from Psalm 80.

It was written by Dutch-American liturgist and composer Omer Westendorf (1916-1997).  It was the theme song for the International Eucharistic Congress help in 1976 in Philadelphia, USA, and is copyright to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia,1977.

With common meter (CM) with refrain, it is set to the tune BICENTENNIAL, composed by Robert Edward Kreutz (1922-1996).

Oh, Oh, Oh, How Good is the Lord

The author and composer of this cheerful children's song about God's goodness are unknown - it is often published attributed to "traditional".

Extra verses can be added as necessary.   In some versions, the verses are "he gives me salvation, ....)

Brother Damian Lundy FSC

Michael Lundy was born in Sowerby Bridge in Yorkshire on 21 March 1944.  He was one of two children, and his father was a pastry-maker and confectioner.   His childhood was spent in Yorkshire and then Bradford

He entered the De la Salle Brothers in 1960, and was then given religious name, becoming Brother Damian.  He took final vows with the brothers in 1969.   As well as a primary degree, he later completed a PhD as well as a Bachelor of Divinity (BD).

Yes I Shall Arise (To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul)

This is a hymn about the resurrection.  It is a setting of Psalm 51, and is popular for funerals.

The song was written by French Roman Catholic Spiritan (Holy Ghost) priest, Lucien Deiss (1921-2007).

The unnamed tune, also written by Deiss, is in 6/8 time.  In the key of G, the first few notes of th melody are BBB d_ d B dBA G_  with accompanying chords G / Bm / Em

Come With Us, Mary / Santa Maria Del Camino

This is an English-language translation of a song used by pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago (the Way of St James) in Spain.

The author and composer are unknown.

The English and Spanish words scan very differently, and it is unlikely they are sung to the same tune.

If you know of an on-line example of the English version of this hymn, please leave a comment below.

Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord (Holy is the Lord God Almighty)

This is a praise-chorus style hymn about Jesus holiness and eternity, based on Revelation 4:8.   

It has been in use since the 1970s at least, and possibly earlier:  A version with the tune only slightly different to the one here was included in Songs of Praise from Scripture in Song which was published in New Zealand in 1973.

The author and composer are unknown:  If you have any information about it, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.

Because the words mention Christ's death, resurrection and coming-again, the first verse is sometimes used as the Sanctus in liturgical services, although the lyrics are a little different from many of the standard translations.  It can also be used as a general praise hymn, with extra verses ("mighty", "worthy" added as necessary.

There are a number of variations of the tune in use around the world - both the melody line, and the accompaniment.  

I Know that My Redeemer Lives - Samuel Medley

This Easter hymn was written by English Baptist pastor Samuel Medley (1738-1799) and first published in 1775.

With meter 8.8.8.8, tunes it is set to include:

• DUKE STREET by Englishman John Hatton (1710 - 1793).

It is not the same as a song by Scott Soper with the same title.

My Song is Love Unknown

This is a hymn about the crucifixion, which is particularly appropriate in Lent and in Good Friday.

It was written by English hymn-writer and Church of England minister Samuel Crossman (1623-1648), and first published in The Young Man’s Meditation in 1664.

With meter of 6.6.6.6.4.4.4.4, tunes it has been set to include:

• CALKIN by John B. Calkin, 1887 
• LOVE UNKNOWN - written for the text by English organist, choirmaster and composer, John N. Ireland (1879-1962), and first published in 1918 
• RHOSYMEDRE by John D. Edwards, 1840
• ST JOHN, attributed to William H. Havergal and published in 1851.

Light of the World we Hail Thee

This is a hymn of praise of Christ under the title "Light of the World. It was written by Church of Ireland clergyman John S. B. Monsell (1811-1875) and first published in Hymns of Love and Praise, 1863.

With meter 76 76 D, tunes that it has been set to include:

• SALVE DOMINE by Lawrence W Watson (1909)
• LIGHT OF THE WORLD by William W Gilchrist (1895)
• ST THEODULPH by Melchior Teschner (1613).

Alleluia Song of Gladness / Sweetness

This is a joyful hymn of praise.   Traditionally, it was used as a "farewell to Alleluias" on Quinquagesima, which is the Sunday before Ash Wednesday.

The words were translated from the Latin "Alleluia dulce carmen" (which is an anonymous 10th or 11th century work), by English Anglican priest, scholar and hymnwriter John Mason Neale (1818–1866).   It was first published in Mediaeval Hymns, 1851, and has been adapted in later publications.

With meter 87 87 87, tunes it has been set to include:

• DULCE CARMEN - attributed to John Michael Haydn (1737-1806)
• LAUDA ANIMA (Goss) by Sir John Goss (d1880)
• ALLELUIA DULCE CARMEN by Edward J Hopkins, 1862

At the Lamb's High Feast We Sing

This is a traditional Easter hymn.

The words were written by Scottish Presbyterian-raised, Roman Catholic convert,  Scottish advocate and hymn writer. Robert Campbell (1814-1868). It was first published in the 1850 St. Andrew's Hymnal, with 4 verses of 8 lines each.

With meter 77 77 D, tunes it is set to include:

• SALZBURG by George J Elvery (1816-1903)
• SONNE DER GERECHTIGKEIT - a 15th century German folk-tune.

Legend (Crown of Roses / Christ when a child)

The lyrics of this metaphorical song about the crucifixion were translated by American author and translator Nathan Haskell Dole (1852-1935) from the Russian poem Legenda by A N P, which is itself a translation of the poem "Roses and Thorns" by American Richard Henry Stoddard (1825-1903). [Source]

Some people attribute the idea in this to a work by Byzantine saint and poet Symeon the New Theologian (949–1022) that Christ is a "Garland that never withereth." [source].

The tune is by Tchaikowsky, based on a score edited by Ralph L Baldwin (1872 - 1943), which was first published as a four part chorus for mixed voices by G Schirmer Inc in 1891.

Take up Thy Cross / Take up Your Cross (the Saviour Said)

This is a hymn about following Jesus / discipleship, which can be used at  Lent and at other times of the year.

The words were written by American Episcopal priest and poet, Charles William Everest (1814-1877).

With meter 8.8.8.8, tunes it has been set to include:

• BRESLAU by  Jos. Clauder, from the Lochamer Gesangbuch, ca 1450
• QUEBEC (Baker) by English engineer and musician, Henry Baker (1835-1910)
• O WALY WALY - traditional English / Irish.

It is quite different from the gospel song of the same name which starts "Take up your cross and follow me".

How Excellent is Thy Loving Kindness

This is a hymn about God's love and kindness.   It is based on Psalm 36:7.

A four part (SATB) vocal arrangement was published in "The Palm: a collection of sacred music, for choirs, singing schools and conventions" in 1870, attributed to J M Stillman, and many other arrangements (both published and unpublished) have been made since.

SongSelect reports the author as Charles F. Noyes, but has no further information.

Various people have claimed to write it in the 1990s - but there are reports of people learning it in primary school in the 1970s in Africa, making the claims from the 1990s seem unlikely.

There was a hymn with a similar name in a Presbyterian Hymnal from 1886, but the verses are quite different.

Spirit of Love

This book by Australian singer-songwriter Brian Boniwell was published in Toowoomba, Queenland in 2000.

It includes 14 songs, all in English and all copyright to Brian Boniwell, 19 Glascony St, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia 4350.

It is available directly from the author who can be contacted by email at boniwell@aapt.net.au

The ISBN is 0646390279.

The book is A4 sized, soft-covered and has 34 pages of music.

Jesus and Joseph Day After Day

This hymn about Jesus' childhood with St Joseph was written by English-born Baptist minister's son, classical scholar and historian Terrot Reavely Glover (1869-1943).

With irregular meter, it was set to the tune NAZARETH by George Thomas Thalben-Ball (1896 - 1987).

It was published in the Methodist School Hymnal, in an edition which was available to the author of this 1926 article.

If you have any more information abut it, especially where to find an example of  it being sung, please leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.

All Who Believe and are Baptized

This is a short hymn about baptism and Christian unity in diversity.   It is sometimes described as a foundational Lutheran hymn, and is based on an original work written by Danish poet and clergyman, Thomas Hansen Kingo in 1524. 

It was translated to English by American Lutheran pastor and seminary-teacher, George Taylor Rygh (1860-1942).

It may be sung as a round.

With meter 8.7.8.7.8.8.7, tunes it is almost always set to the tune ES IST DAS HEIL from Etlich Cristlich lider, Wittenberg, 1524.