Now Thank We All Our God
Johann Crüger's 17th-century melody and two verses of Martin Rinkhart's text form the basis of this stirring arrangement. Additional text by Eda Ashby beautifully expresses concepts of gathering: recognizing the gifts we receive from heaven and anticipating heaven’s ultimate harvest. The setting begins simply, with unison verses for the women followed by the men, and builds to a heartfelt and rousing conclusion with all voices divisi (SSAATTBB).
A powerful anthem of gratitude especially suited for the Thanksgiving season.
Available in the following versions:
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SATB and Organ Four Hands
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SATB and Piano
TEXT
Now thank we all our God
With hearts and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things hath done,
In whom his earth rejoices;
Who, from our mothers’ arms,
Hath blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love
And still is ours today.
The harvest he has giv’n,
We gather with the Master
To garners he secures
Against the storms’ disaster.
With sheaves now bound in love,
We come before his face.
Into our holy home
We enter by his grace.
Oh, may our bounteous God
Through all our life be near us,
With ever-joyful hearts
And blessed peace to cheer us,
And keep us in his love,
And guide us day and night,
And free us from all ills,
Protect us by his might.
All praise be to our God,
By whom all good is given;
Who by his Son brings us,
His harvest, into heaven.
We thank thee, Lord of all,
And at thy feet adore:
For by thy gifts we live,
Both now and evermore!