My People (The Reproaches) - Andersen

This hymn is a simple setting of the traditional Good Friday text, The Reproaches (aka the Improperia).

It was written by Australia Roman Catholic priest and liturgist, Frank Andersen MSC.

The tune by Andersen is un-named.  It has a 4/4 time signature and starts with the note of G repeated a number of times.   It is included in his still-available publication Scripture in Song - the Music of Frank Andersen.

Downloads

Examples

Small group with piano accompaniment:

Solo singer with guitar and backing track (ends abruptly):

Original recording (remastered) - cantor and chor with orchestra:

Lyrics

The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available, along with a midi backing track, on this website.

The song starts with a two-line chorus, and this is repeated after each of the five verses. A rough outline is:

Chorus:
My people,my people, what have I done to you?
For in what way have I offended you?
Answer me.
Answer me.

1 I led you safely out of Egypt.

2 I opened up the sea before you.

3 I raised you to the heights of glory.

See more ...

• Settings of the Reproaches 
• Hymns for Good Friday

KEEP IN CASE ORIGINAL IS REMOVED, BUT DO NOT DISPLAY
My people… my people! What have I done to you?
or in what way have I offended you?
Answer me: answer me!

1 I led you safely out of Egypt.
I led you safely through the sea.
I led you safely into freedom,
but you have nailed Me to a tree.

2 I opened up the sea before you.
I opened up this Promised land.
I opened up my arms to hold you,
but you have nailed them to a tree.

3 I raised you to the heights of glory.
I raised your head and held you high.
I raised a vine that would be fruitful,
but you have raised Me up to die.