Music Suggestions
This page is not available for viewing at this screen width.
For your wedding you will generally need music for the entrance of the bride into the church, up to three hymns and music as you leave. You may also want to choose some music for during the signing of the registers, particularly if you are having the choir.
If you want to use recorded music played over the church PA for any part of your service then you will need to arrange this with whoever is leading your wedding service. But please let me know as well so that I am aware of the arrangements and know when I need to play the organ and when not to.
Select the tabs below for further details of organ and/or choir music suggestions.
If you want to use recorded music played over the church PA for any part of your service then you will need to arrange this with whoever is leading your wedding service. But please let me know as well so that I am aware of the arrangements and know when I need to play the organ and when not to.
Select the tabs below for further details of organ and/or choir music suggestions.
Before the Service
If you have particular music that you would like me to play as your guests arrive please discuss it with me. Otherwise quiet organ music of my choice will be played during this time.
Entrance of the Bride
The music for the entrance of the Bride should be a ‘striking’ piece to ensure that the congregation realise that the service is starting – it is their cue to stand up to welcome the bride! It only needs to be quite short (about 1 to 1½ minutes) so will often be an extract rather than a complete item.
It is very common to have recorded music played at this point, or the traditional "Here comes the bride..." played on the organ. If there is something else you would like at this point please contact me to discuss.
It is very common to have recorded music played at this point, or the traditional "Here comes the bride..." played on the organ. If there is something else you would like at this point please contact me to discuss.
Bridal March from Lohengrin - Wagner, R.
Hymns
It is normal to have either two or three hymns for your wedding. In choosing hymns it may be helpful to consider whether your guests are likely to know them. The list below includes hymns that have proved popular for use at weddings and is provided to help you choose, not to limit your choice. If you have favourites of your own that are not on this list please feel free to request them.
Click the hymn name below to see the words, where copyright permits, and listen to the most popular tunes. If you need to look at words for hymns in copyright please contact me to arrange borrowing a hymn book.
The hymns flagged thus have specific comments about their usage that you might want to check out before making a decision to use them.
Click the hymn name below to see the words, where copyright permits, and listen to the most popular tunes. If you need to look at words for hymns in copyright please contact me to arrange borrowing a hymn book.
The hymns flagged thus have specific comments about their usage that you might want to check out before making a decision to use them.
All things bright and beautiful
Amazing Grace
And did those feet (or "Jerusalem")
As man and woman we were made
At Cana's wedding long ago
At the name of Jesus
Be still for the presence of the Lord
Be thou my vision
Bind us together
Come down, O love Divine
Come to a wedding
Dear Lord and Father of mankind
Father, hear the prayer we offer
For the beauty of the earth
Give me joy in my heart (or "Sing hosanna")
God in the planning and purpose of life
Great is thy faithfulness
Guide me, O thou great redeemer
Immortal, invisible, God only wise
Jerusalem (or "And did those feet")
Lead us, heavenly Father, lead us
Lord and lover of creation
Lord of all hopefulness
Amazing Grace
And did those feet (or "Jerusalem")
As man and woman we were made
At Cana's wedding long ago
At the name of Jesus
Be still for the presence of the Lord
Be thou my vision
Bind us together
Come down, O love Divine
Come to a wedding
Dear Lord and Father of mankind
Father, hear the prayer we offer
For the beauty of the earth
Give me joy in my heart (or "Sing hosanna")
God in the planning and purpose of life
Great is thy faithfulness
Guide me, O thou great redeemer
Immortal, invisible, God only wise
Jerusalem (or "And did those feet")
Lead us, heavenly Father, lead us
Lord and lover of creation
Lord of all hopefulness
Love Divine all loves excelling
Make me a channel of your peace
Morning has broken
Now thank we all our God
O Jesus, I have promised
O perfect love
O praise ye the Lord!
O worship the King
One more step along the world I go
Praise, my soul, the King of Heaven
Praise the Lord, ye heavens adore Him
Praise to the Lord, the almighty, the king of creation
Seek ye first the kingdom of God
Sing hosanna (or "Give me joy in my heart")
Tell out my soul
That human life might richer be
The grace of Life is theirs
The King of love my shepherd is
The Lord's my Shepherd (Traditional)
The Lord's my Shepherd (Townend)
These vows of love are taken
Thine for ever! God of love
We pledge to one another
Make me a channel of your peace
Morning has broken
Now thank we all our God
O Jesus, I have promised
O perfect love
O praise ye the Lord!
O worship the King
One more step along the world I go
Praise, my soul, the King of Heaven
Praise the Lord, ye heavens adore Him
Praise to the Lord, the almighty, the king of creation
Seek ye first the kingdom of God
Sing hosanna (or "Give me joy in my heart")
Tell out my soul
That human life might richer be
The grace of Life is theirs
The King of love my shepherd is
The Lord's my Shepherd (Traditional)
The Lord's my Shepherd (Townend)
These vows of love are taken
Thine for ever! God of love
We pledge to one another
Please be sure to read the important notes on Copyright Issues relating to reproducing hymn words in your Order of Service.
Register Signing
I will play quiet organ music of my choice during the register signing unless you have let me know of any particular requests or other arrangements.
Leaving the Church
As the finale to the service this needs to be a ‘grand and triumphal’ piece. It can take quite some time for the congregation to leave the church so this will generally need to be a long item to avoid either endless repetition or finishing before the your guests have all left the church.
It is very common to have recorded music played at this point, or the traditional "Wedding March" played on the organ. If there is something else you would like at this point please contact me to discuss.
It is very common to have recorded music played at this point, or the traditional "Wedding March" played on the organ. If there is something else you would like at this point please contact me to discuss.
Wedding March from ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ - Mendelssohn, F.
All things bright and beautiful
All things bright and beautiful,
all creatures great and small,
all things wise and wonderful,
the Lord God made them all.
Each little flower that opens,
each little bird that sings,
he made their glowing colours,
he made their tiny wings.
All things bright ...
The purple-headed mountain,
the river running by,
the sunset, and the morning
that brightens up the sky.
All things bright ...
The cold wind in the winter,
the pleasant summer sun,
the ripe fruits in the garden,
he made them every one.
All things bright ...
The tall trees in the greenwood,
the meadows for our play,
the rushes by the water,
we gather ev’ry day.
All things bright ...
He gave us eyes to see them,
and lips that we might tell
how great is God almighty,
who has made all things well.
All things bright ...
Cecil Frances Alexander (1818–95)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
all creatures great and small,
all things wise and wonderful,
the Lord God made them all.
Each little flower that opens,
each little bird that sings,
he made their glowing colours,
he made their tiny wings.
All things bright ...
The purple-headed mountain,
the river running by,
the sunset, and the morning
that brightens up the sky.
All things bright ...
The cold wind in the winter,
the pleasant summer sun,
the ripe fruits in the garden,
he made them every one.
All things bright ...
The tall trees in the greenwood,
the meadows for our play,
the rushes by the water,
we gather ev’ry day.
All things bright ...
He gave us eyes to see them,
and lips that we might tell
how great is God almighty,
who has made all things well.
All things bright ...
Cecil Frances Alexander (1818–95)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Royal Oak" traditional, adapted by Martin Shaw (1875–1958)
Tune "All things bright and beautiful" by W. H. Monk (1823–89)
Notes:
Verse 5 (The tall trees in the greenwood...) is often omitted.
Ref: HON 26
Verse 5 (The tall trees in the greenwood...) is often omitted.
Ref: HON 26
Amazing grace!
Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found;
was blind, but now I see.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
and grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear
the hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come.
'Tis grace that brought me safe thus far,
and grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me,
his word my hope secures;
he will my shield and portion be
as long as life endures.
When we've been there a thousand years,
bright shining as the sun,
we've no less days to sing God's praise
than when we first begun.
vv 1-4: John Newton (1725-1807) alt.
v5: John Rees (1828-1900)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
that saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found;
was blind, but now I see.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
and grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear
the hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come.
'Tis grace that brought me safe thus far,
and grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me,
his word my hope secures;
he will my shield and portion be
as long as life endures.
When we've been there a thousand years,
bright shining as the sun,
we've no less days to sing God's praise
than when we first begun.
vv 1-4: John Newton (1725-1807) alt.
v5: John Rees (1828-1900)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Amazing Grace" American Folk Melody
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: HON 34
Ref: HON 34
And did those Feet (Jerusalem)
And did those feet in ancient time
walk upon England's mountains green?
And was the holy Lamb of God
on England's pleasant pastures seen?
And did the countenance divine
shine forth upon our clouded hills?
And was Jerusalem builded here
among those dark satanic mills?
Bring me my bow of burning gold!
Bring me my arrow of desire!
Bring me my spear! O clouds unfold!
Bring me my chariot of fire!
I will not cease from mental fight,
nor shall my sword sleep in my hand,
‘till we have built Jerusalem
in England's green and pleasant land.
William Blake (1757–1827)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
walk upon England's mountains green?
And was the holy Lamb of God
on England's pleasant pastures seen?
And did the countenance divine
shine forth upon our clouded hills?
And was Jerusalem builded here
among those dark satanic mills?
Bring me my bow of burning gold!
Bring me my arrow of desire!
Bring me my spear! O clouds unfold!
Bring me my chariot of fire!
I will not cease from mental fight,
nor shall my sword sleep in my hand,
‘till we have built Jerusalem
in England's green and pleasant land.
William Blake (1757–1827)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Jerusalem" by C. Hubert H. Parry (1848–1918)
"And did those feet in ancient time" is a poem by William Blake from the preface to his work Milton: a Poem (1804). The text of the poem was inspired by the legend that Jesus, while still a young man, accompanied Joseph of Arimathea to Glastonbury. Blake's biographers tell us that he believed in this legend. However, the poem's theme or subtext is subject to much sharper debate, probably accounting for its popularity across the philosophical spectrum.
Today it is best known as the hymn "Jerusalem", with music written by C. Hubert H. Parry in 1916. It is considered to be one of England's most popular patriotic songs, often being used as an alternative anthem. It is variously associated with English nationalism, anti-modernism, post-modernism, socialist ideals, and Christianity, thereby holding a rather odd position. Jerusalem is the official anthem of the British National Party and the British Women's Institute, and historically was used by the National Union of Suffrage Societies.
Bearing the above points in mind it is somewhat debatable whether this hymn is suitable for weddings. Nevertheless it is very popular.
Today it is best known as the hymn "Jerusalem", with music written by C. Hubert H. Parry in 1916. It is considered to be one of England's most popular patriotic songs, often being used as an alternative anthem. It is variously associated with English nationalism, anti-modernism, post-modernism, socialist ideals, and Christianity, thereby holding a rather odd position. Jerusalem is the official anthem of the British National Party and the British Women's Institute, and historically was used by the National Union of Suffrage Societies.
Bearing the above points in mind it is somewhat debatable whether this hymn is suitable for weddings. Nevertheless it is very popular.
Notes:
Ref: HON 37
Ref: HON 37
As man and woman we were made
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Brian Wren (b. 1936), © Stainer & Bell Ltd, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Brian Wren (b. 1936), © Stainer & Bell Ltd, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Sussex Carol" Trad, arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958)
Notes:
Ref: AMRW 343
Ref: AMRW 343
At Cana's wedding long ago
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Timothy Dudley-Smith © Dudley-Smith, Timothy (Admin. by Oxford University Press), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Timothy Dudley-Smith © Dudley-Smith, Timothy (Admin. by Oxford University Press), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Sussex Carol" Trad, arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958)
Notes:
Ref: CofE
Ref: CofE
At the name of Jesus
At the name of Jesus
ev’ry knee shall bow,
ev’ry tongue confess him
King of Glory now;
’tis the Father's pleasure
we should call him Lord,
who, from the beginning,
was the mighty Word.
At his voice creation
sprang at once to sight,
all the angels' faces,
all the hosts of light,
thrones and dominations,
stars upon their way,
all the heav'nly orders
In their great array.
Humbled for a season,
to receive a name
from the lips of sinners
unto whom he came,
faithfully he bore it,
spotless to the last,
brought it back victorious
when from death he passed.
Bore it up triumphant,
with its human light,
through all ranks of creatures
to the central height,
to the throne of Godhead,
to the Father's breast,
filled it with the glory
of that perfect rest.
In your hearts enthrone him;
there let him subdue
all that is not holy,
all that is not true;
crown him as your captain
in temptation's hour;
let his will enfold you
in its light and pow'r.
Truly, this Lord Jesus
shall return again,
with his Father’s glory,
with his angel train;
for all wreaths of empire
meet upon his brow,
and our hearts confess him
King of glory now.
Caroline Maria Noel (1817–77)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
ev’ry knee shall bow,
ev’ry tongue confess him
King of Glory now;
’tis the Father's pleasure
we should call him Lord,
who, from the beginning,
was the mighty Word.
At his voice creation
sprang at once to sight,
all the angels' faces,
all the hosts of light,
thrones and dominations,
stars upon their way,
all the heav'nly orders
In their great array.
Humbled for a season,
to receive a name
from the lips of sinners
unto whom he came,
faithfully he bore it,
spotless to the last,
brought it back victorious
when from death he passed.
Bore it up triumphant,
with its human light,
through all ranks of creatures
to the central height,
to the throne of Godhead,
to the Father's breast,
filled it with the glory
of that perfect rest.
In your hearts enthrone him;
there let him subdue
all that is not holy,
all that is not true;
crown him as your captain
in temptation's hour;
let his will enfold you
in its light and pow'r.
Truly, this Lord Jesus
shall return again,
with his Father’s glory,
with his angel train;
for all wreaths of empire
meet upon his brow,
and our hearts confess him
King of glory now.
Caroline Maria Noel (1817–77)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Camberwell" by Michael Brierley
Notes:
Ref: HON 52
Ref: HON 52
Be still, for the prescence of the Lord
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
David J. Evans © 1986 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integritymusic.com), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
David J. Evans © 1986 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integritymusic.com), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Be still" by David J. Evans (b.1957)
Notes:
Ref: HON 62
Ref: HON 62
Be thou my vision
Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart,
naught be all else to me, save that thou art;
thou my best thought in the day and the night,
waking and sleeping, thy presence my light.
Be thou my wisdom, be thou my true word,
I ever with thee and thou with me, Lord;
thou my great Father, and I thy true heir;
thou in me dwelling, and I in thy care.
Be thou my breastplate, my sword for the fight;
thou my whole armour, and be thou my might;
thou my soul’s shelter, and thou my high tow’r:
raise thou me heav’nward, O Pow’r of my pow’r.
Riches I heed not, nor all the world’s praise:
thou mine inheritance through all my days;
thou, and thou only, the first in my heart;
High King of heaven, my treasure thou art!
High King of heaven, when battle is done,
grant heaven’s joy to me, O bright heav’n’s sun;
Christ of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.
Traditional Irish.
Copyright unknown. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
naught be all else to me, save that thou art;
thou my best thought in the day and the night,
waking and sleeping, thy presence my light.
Be thou my wisdom, be thou my true word,
I ever with thee and thou with me, Lord;
thou my great Father, and I thy true heir;
thou in me dwelling, and I in thy care.
Be thou my breastplate, my sword for the fight;
thou my whole armour, and be thou my might;
thou my soul’s shelter, and thou my high tow’r:
raise thou me heav’nward, O Pow’r of my pow’r.
Riches I heed not, nor all the world’s praise:
thou mine inheritance through all my days;
thou, and thou only, the first in my heart;
High King of heaven, my treasure thou art!
High King of heaven, when battle is done,
grant heaven’s joy to me, O bright heav’n’s sun;
Christ of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O Ruler of all.
Traditional Irish.
Copyright unknown. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Slane" Traditional Irish Melody
Notes:
Ref: HON 66
Ref: HON 66
Bind us together, Lord
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Bob Gillman, © 1977 Thankyou music, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Bob Gillman, © 1977 Thankyou music, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Music by Bob Gillman
Notes:
Ref: HON 73
Ref: HON 73
Come down, O love divine
Come down, O love divine,
seek thou this soul of mine,
and visit it with thine own ardour glowing;
O Comforter, draw near,
within my heart appear,
and kindle it, thy holy flame bestowing.
O let it freely burn,
‘till earthly passions turn
to dust and ashes in its heat consuming;
and let thy glorious light
shine ever in thy sight,
and clothe me round, the while my path illuming.
Let holy charity
mine outward vesture be,
and lowliness become mine inner clothing;
true lowliness of heart,
which takes the humbler part,
and o'er its own shortcomings weeps with loathing.
And so the yearning strong,
with which the soul will long,
shall far outpass the pow’r of human telling;
nor can we guess its grace,
‘till we become the place
wherein the Holy Spirit makes his dwelling.
Bianco da Siena (d.1434), Tr. R. F. Littledale (1833–90)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
seek thou this soul of mine,
and visit it with thine own ardour glowing;
O Comforter, draw near,
within my heart appear,
and kindle it, thy holy flame bestowing.
O let it freely burn,
‘till earthly passions turn
to dust and ashes in its heat consuming;
and let thy glorious light
shine ever in thy sight,
and clothe me round, the while my path illuming.
Let holy charity
mine outward vesture be,
and lowliness become mine inner clothing;
true lowliness of heart,
which takes the humbler part,
and o'er its own shortcomings weeps with loathing.
And so the yearning strong,
with which the soul will long,
shall far outpass the pow’r of human telling;
nor can we guess its grace,
‘till we become the place
wherein the Holy Spirit makes his dwelling.
Bianco da Siena (d.1434), Tr. R. F. Littledale (1833–90)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Down Ampney" by Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872–1958)
Notes:
Ref: HON 120
Ref: HON 120
Come to a wedding
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Shirley Erena Murray (1931-), © Hope Publishing Company, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Shirley Erena Murray (1931-), © Hope Publishing Company, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Bunessan" Gaelic Melody
Notes:
Ref: CofE
Ref: CofE
Dear Lord and Father of mankind
Dear Lord and Father of mankind,
forgive our foolish ways!
Re-clothe us in our rightful mind,
in purer lives thy service find,
in deeper reverence praise,
in deeper reverence praise.
In simple trust like theirs who heard,
beside the Syrian sea,
the gracious calling of the Lord,
let us, like them, without a word
rise up and follow thee,
rise up and follow thee.
O Sabbath rest by Galilee!
O Calm of hills above,
where Jesus knelt to share with thee
the silence of eternity,
interpreted by Love!
Interpreted by Love!
Drop thy still dews of quietness,
‘till all our strivings cease;
take from our souls the strain and stress,
and let our ordered lives confess
the beauty of thy peace,
the beauty of thy peace.
Breathe through the heats of our desire
thy coolness and thy balm;
let sense be dumb, let flesh retire;
speak through the earthquake, wind and fire,
O still small voice of calm!
O still small voice of calm!
J. G. Whittier (1807–92)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
forgive our foolish ways!
Re-clothe us in our rightful mind,
in purer lives thy service find,
in deeper reverence praise,
in deeper reverence praise.
In simple trust like theirs who heard,
beside the Syrian sea,
the gracious calling of the Lord,
let us, like them, without a word
rise up and follow thee,
rise up and follow thee.
O Sabbath rest by Galilee!
O Calm of hills above,
where Jesus knelt to share with thee
the silence of eternity,
interpreted by Love!
Interpreted by Love!
Drop thy still dews of quietness,
‘till all our strivings cease;
take from our souls the strain and stress,
and let our ordered lives confess
the beauty of thy peace,
the beauty of thy peace.
Breathe through the heats of our desire
thy coolness and thy balm;
let sense be dumb, let flesh retire;
speak through the earthquake, wind and fire,
O still small voice of calm!
O still small voice of calm!
J. G. Whittier (1807–92)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Repton" by C. Hubert H. Parry (1848–1918)
Notes:
Ref: HON 152
Ref: HON 152
Father, hear the prayer we offer
Father, hear the prayer we offer:
not for ease that prayer shall be,
but for strength that we may ever
live our lives courageously.
Not for ever in green pastures
do we ask our way to be;
but the steep and rugged pathway
may we tread rejoicingly.
Not for ever by still waters
would we idly rest and stay;
but would smite the living fountains
from the rocks along our way.
Be our strength in hours of weakness,
in our wand’rings be our guide;
through endeavour, failure, danger,
Father, be thou at our side.
L. M. Willis (1824–1908)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
not for ease that prayer shall be,
but for strength that we may ever
live our lives courageously.
Not for ever in green pastures
do we ask our way to be;
but the steep and rugged pathway
may we tread rejoicingly.
Not for ever by still waters
would we idly rest and stay;
but would smite the living fountains
from the rocks along our way.
Be our strength in hours of weakness,
in our wand’rings be our guide;
through endeavour, failure, danger,
Father, be thou at our side.
L. M. Willis (1824–1908)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Sussex" trad., adapt. by Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872–1958)
Tune "Marching" by Martin Shaw (1875–1958)
Notes:
Ref: HON 169
Ref: HON 169
For the beauty of the earth
For the beauty of the earth,
For the beauty of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies,
Christ our God, to thee we raise
This our sacrifice of praise.
For the beauty of each hour
Of the day and of the night,
Hill and vale, and tree and flower,
Sun and moon, and stars of light:
Christ our God ...
For the joy of ear and eye,
For the heart and mind’s delight,
For the mystic harmony
Linking sense to sound and sight:
Christ our God ...
For the joy of human love,
Brother, sister, parent, child,
Friends on earth, and friends above,
For all gentle thoughts and mild:
Christ our God ...
For each perfect gift of thine
To our race so freely given,
Graces human and divine,
Flowers of earth and buds of heaven:
Christ our God ...
For thy church that evermore
Lifteth holy hands above,
Offering up on every shore
This pure sacrifice of love:
Christ our God ...
Foliot Sandford Pierpoint (1835-1917)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
For the beauty of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies,
Christ our God, to thee we raise
This our sacrifice of praise.
For the beauty of each hour
Of the day and of the night,
Hill and vale, and tree and flower,
Sun and moon, and stars of light:
Christ our God ...
For the joy of ear and eye,
For the heart and mind’s delight,
For the mystic harmony
Linking sense to sound and sight:
Christ our God ...
For the joy of human love,
Brother, sister, parent, child,
Friends on earth, and friends above,
For all gentle thoughts and mild:
Christ our God ...
For each perfect gift of thine
To our race so freely given,
Graces human and divine,
Flowers of earth and buds of heaven:
Christ our God ...
For thy church that evermore
Lifteth holy hands above,
Offering up on every shore
This pure sacrifice of love:
Christ our God ...
Foliot Sandford Pierpoint (1835-1917)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Dix" by Conrad Kocher (1786-1872), adapted by William Henry Monk (1823-1889)
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: HON 195
Ref: HON 195
Give me joy in my heart (Sing hosanna)
Give me joy in my heart, keep me praising,
give me joy in my heart, I pray;
give me joy in my heart, keep me praising,
keep me praising 'till the break of day:
Sing hosanna, sing hosanna,
sing hosanna to the King of kings!
Sing hosanna, sing hosanna,
sing hosanna to the King!
Give me peace in my heart, keep me resting,
give me peace in my heart, I pray;
give me peace in my heart, keep me resting,
keep me resting 'till the break of day:
Sing hosanna, ...
Give me love in my heart, keep me serving,
give me love in my heart, I pray,
give me love in my heart, Keep me serving,
keep me serving 'till the break of day:
Sing hosanna, ...
Traditional.
Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
give me joy in my heart, I pray;
give me joy in my heart, keep me praising,
keep me praising 'till the break of day:
Sing hosanna, sing hosanna,
sing hosanna to the King of kings!
Sing hosanna, sing hosanna,
sing hosanna to the King!
Give me peace in my heart, keep me resting,
give me peace in my heart, I pray;
give me peace in my heart, keep me resting,
keep me resting 'till the break of day:
Sing hosanna, ...
Give me love in my heart, keep me serving,
give me love in my heart, I pray,
give me love in my heart, Keep me serving,
keep me serving 'till the break of day:
Sing hosanna, ...
Traditional.
Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Sing Hosanna" traditional
Notes:
There are many variations of the words for this hymn, but the verses shown above are probably the most suitable for use at weddings.
Ref: HON 215
There are many variations of the words for this hymn, but the verses shown above are probably the most suitable for use at weddings.
Ref: HON 215
God in the planning and purpose of life
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
John L. Bell and Graham Maule © 1989 WGRG, Iona Community, Glasgow, Scotland, G2 3DH (Admin. by Wild Goose Resource Group), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
John L. Bell and Graham Maule © 1989 WGRG, Iona Community, Glasgow, Scotland, G2 3DH (Admin. by Wild Goose Resource Group), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Slane" Traditional Irish Melody
Notes:
Ref: CofE
Ref: CofE
Great is thy faithfulness
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Thomas Obidiah Chisholm © 1923. Renewed 1951 Hope Publishing Company, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Thomas Obidiah Chisholm © 1923. Renewed 1951 Hope Publishing Company, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Faithfulness" by William Morrison Runyan (1870-1957)
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: HON 273
Ref: HON 273
Guide me, O thou great Redeemer
Guide me, O thou great Redeemer,
pilgrim through this barren land;
I am weak, but thou art mighty;
hold me with thy powerful hand:
Bread of Heaven, Bread of Heaven,
feed me ‘till I want no more,
feed me ‘till I want no more.
Open now the crystal fountain
whence the healing stream doth flow;
let the fiery cloudy pillar
lead me all my journey through:
strong deliv’rer, strong deliv’rer,
be thou still me strength and shield,
be thou still me strength and shield.
When I tread the verge of Jordan,
bid my anxious fears subside;
death of death, and hell's destruction,
land me safe on Canaan's side:
songs of praises, songs of praises,
I will ever give to thee,
I will ever give to thee.
Songs of praises, songs of praises,
I will ever give to thee,
I will ever give to thee.
W. Williams (1717–91), Tr. P. and W. Williams
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
pilgrim through this barren land;
I am weak, but thou art mighty;
hold me with thy powerful hand:
Bread of Heaven, Bread of Heaven,
feed me ‘till I want no more,
feed me ‘till I want no more.
Open now the crystal fountain
whence the healing stream doth flow;
let the fiery cloudy pillar
lead me all my journey through:
strong deliv’rer, strong deliv’rer,
be thou still me strength and shield,
be thou still me strength and shield.
When I tread the verge of Jordan,
bid my anxious fears subside;
death of death, and hell's destruction,
land me safe on Canaan's side:
songs of praises, songs of praises,
I will ever give to thee,
I will ever give to thee.
Songs of praises, songs of praises,
I will ever give to thee,
I will ever give to thee.
W. Williams (1717–91), Tr. P. and W. Williams
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Cwm Rhondda" by John Hughes (1873–1932)
Notes:
It is recommended that the last three lines of verse three are repeated, as shown above italics, in order to provide a "grand finale" to this rousing hymn.
If you specifically do not want to do this please be sure to have made me aware beforehand.
Ref: HON 275
It is recommended that the last three lines of verse three are repeated, as shown above italics, in order to provide a "grand finale" to this rousing hymn.
If you specifically do not want to do this please be sure to have made me aware beforehand.
Ref: HON 275
Immortal, Invisible, God only wise
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
in light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
most blessèd, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
almighty, victorious, thy great name we praise.
Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light,
nor wanting, nor wasting, thou rulest in might;
thy justice like mountains high soaring above
thy clouds which are fountains of goodness and love.
To all life thou givest, to both great and small;
in all life thou livest, the true life of all;
we blossom and flourish as leaves on the tree,
and wither and perish; but naught changeth thee.
Great Father of glory, pure Father of light,
thine angels adore thee, all veiling their sight;
all laud we would render: O help us to see
’tis only the splendour of light hideth thee.
W. Chalmers Smith (1824–1908) based on 1 Timothy 1.17
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
in light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
most blessèd, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
almighty, victorious, thy great name we praise.
Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light,
nor wanting, nor wasting, thou rulest in might;
thy justice like mountains high soaring above
thy clouds which are fountains of goodness and love.
To all life thou givest, to both great and small;
in all life thou livest, the true life of all;
we blossom and flourish as leaves on the tree,
and wither and perish; but naught changeth thee.
Great Father of glory, pure Father of light,
thine angels adore thee, all veiling their sight;
all laud we would render: O help us to see
’tis only the splendour of light hideth thee.
W. Chalmers Smith (1824–1908) based on 1 Timothy 1.17
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "St. Denio" Welsh Hymn Melody
Notes:
Ref: HON 349
Ref: HON 349
Lead us, heavenly Father, lead us
Lead us, heavenly Father, lead us
oe’r the world's tempestuous sea;
guard us, guide us, keep us, feed us,
for we have no help but thee:
yet possessing every blessing
if our God our Father be.
Saviour, breathe forgiveness o'er us:
all our weakness thou dost know;
thou didst tread this earth before us,
thou didst feel its keenest woe;
lone and dreary, faint and weary,
through the desert thou didst go.
Spirit of our God, descending,
fill our hearts with heav’nly joy,
love with ev’ry passion blending,
pleasure that can never cloy:
thus provided, pardoned, guided,
nothing can our peace destroy.
J. Edmeston (1791–1867)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
oe’r the world's tempestuous sea;
guard us, guide us, keep us, feed us,
for we have no help but thee:
yet possessing every blessing
if our God our Father be.
Saviour, breathe forgiveness o'er us:
all our weakness thou dost know;
thou didst tread this earth before us,
thou didst feel its keenest woe;
lone and dreary, faint and weary,
through the desert thou didst go.
Spirit of our God, descending,
fill our hearts with heav’nly joy,
love with ev’ry passion blending,
pleasure that can never cloy:
thus provided, pardoned, guided,
nothing can our peace destroy.
J. Edmeston (1791–1867)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Mannheim" adapt. from F. Filitz's Choralbuch (1847)
Notes:
Ref: HON 422
Ref: HON 422
Lord and lover of creation
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Shirley Erena Murray (1931-), © Hope Publishing Company, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Shirley Erena Murray (1931-), © Hope Publishing Company, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Westminster Abbey" by Henry Purcell (1659-1695)
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: CofE
Ref: CofE
Lord of all hopefulness
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Jan Struther (1901–1953), © Oxford University Press, CCL Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Jan Struther (1901–1953), © Oxford University Press, CCL Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Slane" Traditional Irish Melody
The words of this hymn are an allegory of life from birth to death. As such, in the last verse, you are singing about your eventual death.
Please bear this in mind when considering the use of this hymn for your wedding.
Please bear this in mind when considering the use of this hymn for your wedding.
Notes:
Ref: HON 467
Ref: HON 467
Love divine, all loves excelling
Tune "Blaenwern" by William Penfro Rowlands (1860–1937)
Words for tune "Blaenwern"
Love divine, all loves excelling,
joy of heaven, to earth come down,
fix in us thy humble dwelling,
all thy faithful mercies crown.
Jesu, thou art all compassion,
pure unbounded love thou art;
visit us with thy salvation,
enter every trembling heart.
Breathe, O breathe the loving spirit
into ev’ry troubled breast;
let us all in thee inherit,
let us find thy promised rest.
Take away the love of sinning,
Alpha and Omega be;
end of faith, as its beginning,
set our hearts at liberty.
Come, almighty to deliver,
let us all thy grace receive;
suddenly return, and never,
never more thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
serve thee as thy hosts above;
pray, and praise thee, without ceasing,
glory in thy perfect love.
Finish then thy new creation;
pure and spotless let us be;
let us see thy great salvation,
perfectly restored in thee;
Changed from glory into glory,
‘till in heaven we take our place,
‘till we cast our crowns before thee,
lost in wonder, love, and praise.
joy of heaven, to earth come down,
fix in us thy humble dwelling,
all thy faithful mercies crown.
Jesu, thou art all compassion,
pure unbounded love thou art;
visit us with thy salvation,
enter every trembling heart.
Breathe, O breathe the loving spirit
into ev’ry troubled breast;
let us all in thee inherit,
let us find thy promised rest.
Take away the love of sinning,
Alpha and Omega be;
end of faith, as its beginning,
set our hearts at liberty.
Come, almighty to deliver,
let us all thy grace receive;
suddenly return, and never,
never more thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
serve thee as thy hosts above;
pray, and praise thee, without ceasing,
glory in thy perfect love.
Finish then thy new creation;
pure and spotless let us be;
let us see thy great salvation,
perfectly restored in thee;
Changed from glory into glory,
‘till in heaven we take our place,
‘till we cast our crowns before thee,
lost in wonder, love, and praise.
Tune "Love Divine" by John Stainer (1840–1901)
Words for tune "Love Divine"
Love divine, all loves excelling,
joy of heaven, to earth come down,
fix in us thy humble dwelling,
all thy faithful mercies crown.
Jesu, thou art all compassion,
pure unbounded love thou art;
visit us with thy salvation,
enter every trembling heart.
Breathe, O breathe the loving spirit
into ev’ry troubled breast;
let us all in thee inherit,
let us find thy promised rest.
Take away the love of sinning,
Alpha and Omega be;
end of faith, as its beginning,
set our hearts at liberty.
Come, almighty to deliver,
let us all thy grace receive;
suddenly return, and never,
never more thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
serve thee as thy hosts above;
pray, and praise thee, without ceasing,
glory in thy perfect love.
Finish then thy new creation;
pure and spotless let us be;
let us see thy great salvation,
perfectly restored in thee;
Changed from glory into glory,
‘till in heaven we take our place,
‘till we cast our crowns before thee,
lost in wonder, love, and praise.
joy of heaven, to earth come down,
fix in us thy humble dwelling,
all thy faithful mercies crown.
Jesu, thou art all compassion,
pure unbounded love thou art;
visit us with thy salvation,
enter every trembling heart.
Breathe, O breathe the loving spirit
into ev’ry troubled breast;
let us all in thee inherit,
let us find thy promised rest.
Take away the love of sinning,
Alpha and Omega be;
end of faith, as its beginning,
set our hearts at liberty.
Come, almighty to deliver,
let us all thy grace receive;
suddenly return, and never,
never more thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
serve thee as thy hosts above;
pray, and praise thee, without ceasing,
glory in thy perfect love.
Finish then thy new creation;
pure and spotless let us be;
let us see thy great salvation,
perfectly restored in thee;
Changed from glory into glory,
‘till in heaven we take our place,
‘till we cast our crowns before thee,
lost in wonder, love, and praise.
Charles Wesley (1707–88)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Notes:
The verses shown in italics are often omitted.
Ref: HON 491
The verses shown in italics are often omitted.
Ref: HON 491
Make me a channel of your peace
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
Sebastian Temple (b. 1928), © 1967 OCP Publications
This hymn is not covered by the CCLI Licence. If you wish to print the words in your order of service you must obtain permission from the copyright holder.
Sebastian Temple (b. 1928), © 1967 OCP Publications
This hymn is not covered by the CCLI Licence. If you wish to print the words in your order of service you must obtain permission from the copyright holder.
Tune "St. Francis" by Sebastian Temple (b. 1928)
Notes:
Ref: HON 499
Ref: HON 499
Morning has broken
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
Eleanor Farjeon (1881–1965), © David Higham Associates Limited
This hymn is not covered by the CCLI Licence. If you wish to print the words in your order of service you must obtain permission from the copyright holder.
Eleanor Farjeon (1881–1965), © David Higham Associates Limited
This hymn is not covered by the CCLI Licence. If you wish to print the words in your order of service you must obtain permission from the copyright holder.
Tune "Bunessan" Gaelic Melody
Notes:
Ref: HON 510
Ref: HON 510
Now thank we all our God
Now thank we all our God,
with hearts and hands and voices,
who wondrous things hath done,
in whom his world rejoices;
who from our mother's arms
hath blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.
O may this bounteous God
through all our life be near us,
with ever joyful hearts
and blessèd peace to cheer us;
and keep us in his grace,
and guide us when perplexed,
and free us from all ills
in this world and the next.
All praise and thanks to God
the Father now be given,
the Son, and him who reigns
with them in highest heaven,
the one eternal God,
whom earth and heav’n adore,
for thus it was, is now,
and shall be evermore.
M. Rinkart (1586–1640), Tr. Catherine Winkworth (1827–78)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
with hearts and hands and voices,
who wondrous things hath done,
in whom his world rejoices;
who from our mother's arms
hath blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.
O may this bounteous God
through all our life be near us,
with ever joyful hearts
and blessèd peace to cheer us;
and keep us in his grace,
and guide us when perplexed,
and free us from all ills
in this world and the next.
All praise and thanks to God
the Father now be given,
the Son, and him who reigns
with them in highest heaven,
the one eternal God,
whom earth and heav’n adore,
for thus it was, is now,
and shall be evermore.
M. Rinkart (1586–1640), Tr. Catherine Winkworth (1827–78)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Nun danket" from J. Crüger's Pietatis Melica (c. 1647)
Notes:
Ref: HON 532
Ref: HON 532
O Jesus, I have promised
Tune "Wolvercote" by W. H. Ferguson (1874–1950)
Tune "Thornbury" by Basil Harwood (1859–1949)
Words for tunes "Wolvercote" and "Thornbury"
O Jesus, I have promised
to serve thee to the end;
be thou for ever near me,
my Master and my Friend:
I shall not fear the battle
if thou art by my side,
nor wander from the pathway
if thou wilt be my guide.
O let me feel thee near me:
the world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
the tempting sounds I hear;
my foes are ever near me,
around me and within;
but, Jesus, draw thou nearer,
and shield my soul from sin.
O let me hear thee speaking
in accents clear and still,
above the storms of passion,
the murmurs of self-will;
O speak to reassure me,
to hasten or control;
O speak, and make me listen,
thou guardian of my soul.
O Jesus, thou hast promised
to all who follow thee,
that where thou art in glory
there shall thy servant be;
and, Jesus, I have promised
to serve thee to the end:
O give me grace to follow,
my Master and my Friend.
O let me see thy foot-marks,
and in them plan mine own;
my hope to follow duly
is in thy strength alone:
O guide me, call me, draw me,
uphold me to the end;
and then in heaven receive me,
my Saviour and my Friend.
to serve thee to the end;
be thou for ever near me,
my Master and my Friend:
I shall not fear the battle
if thou art by my side,
nor wander from the pathway
if thou wilt be my guide.
O let me feel thee near me:
the world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
the tempting sounds I hear;
my foes are ever near me,
around me and within;
but, Jesus, draw thou nearer,
and shield my soul from sin.
O let me hear thee speaking
in accents clear and still,
above the storms of passion,
the murmurs of self-will;
O speak to reassure me,
to hasten or control;
O speak, and make me listen,
thou guardian of my soul.
O Jesus, thou hast promised
to all who follow thee,
that where thou art in glory
there shall thy servant be;
and, Jesus, I have promised
to serve thee to the end:
O give me grace to follow,
my Master and my Friend.
O let me see thy foot-marks,
and in them plan mine own;
my hope to follow duly
is in thy strength alone:
O guide me, call me, draw me,
uphold me to the end;
and then in heaven receive me,
my Saviour and my Friend.
Tune "Hatherop Castle" by Geoffrey Beaumont (1903–1970)
Words for tune "Hatherop Castle"
O Jesus, I have promised
to serve thee to the end;
be thou for ever near me,
my Master and my Friend:
I shall not fear the battle
if thou art by my side,
nor wander from the pathway
if thou wilt be my guide.
O let me feel thee near me:
the world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
the tempting sounds I hear;
my foes are ever near me,
around me and within;
but, Jesus, draw thou nearer,
and shield my soul from sin.
O let me hear thee speaking
in accents clear and still,
above the storms of passion,
the murmurs of self-will;
O speak to reassure me,
to hasten or control;
O speak, and make me listen,
thou guardian of my soul.
O Jesus, thou hast promised
to all who follow thee,
that where thou art in glory
there shall thy servant be;
and, Jesus, I have promised
to serve thee to the end:
O give me grace to follow,
my Master and my Friend.
O let me see thy foot-marks,
and in them plan mine own;
my hope to follow duly
is in thy strength alone:
O guide me, call me, draw me,
uphold me to the end;
and then in heaven receive me,
my Saviour and my Friend.
And then in heaven receive me,
my Saviour and my Friend.
to serve thee to the end;
be thou for ever near me,
my Master and my Friend:
I shall not fear the battle
if thou art by my side,
nor wander from the pathway
if thou wilt be my guide.
O let me feel thee near me:
the world is ever near;
I see the sights that dazzle,
the tempting sounds I hear;
my foes are ever near me,
around me and within;
but, Jesus, draw thou nearer,
and shield my soul from sin.
O let me hear thee speaking
in accents clear and still,
above the storms of passion,
the murmurs of self-will;
O speak to reassure me,
to hasten or control;
O speak, and make me listen,
thou guardian of my soul.
O Jesus, thou hast promised
to all who follow thee,
that where thou art in glory
there shall thy servant be;
and, Jesus, I have promised
to serve thee to the end:
O give me grace to follow,
my Master and my Friend.
O let me see thy foot-marks,
and in them plan mine own;
my hope to follow duly
is in thy strength alone:
O guide me, call me, draw me,
uphold me to the end;
and then in heaven receive me,
my Saviour and my Friend.
And then in heaven receive me,
my Saviour and my Friend.
J. E. Bode (1816–74)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Notes:
Either of both of the verses beginning “O let me feel thee near me...” and “O let me hear thee speaking...” are often omitted.
Ref: HON 556
Either of both of the verses beginning “O let me feel thee near me...” and “O let me hear thee speaking...” are often omitted.
Ref: HON 556
O perfect love
O perfect love, all human thought transcending,
lowly we kneel in prayer before thy throne,
that theirs may be the love which knows no ending,
whom thou for evermore dost join in one.
O perfect life, be thou their full assurance
of tender charity and steadfast faith,
of patient hope, and quiet, brave endurance,
with childlike trust that fears not pain nor death.
Grant them the joy which brightens earthly sorrow,
grant them the peace which calms all earthly strife;
and to life's day the glorious unknown morrow
that dawns upon eternal love and life.
Dorothy F. Gurney (1858–1932)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
lowly we kneel in prayer before thy throne,
that theirs may be the love which knows no ending,
whom thou for evermore dost join in one.
O perfect life, be thou their full assurance
of tender charity and steadfast faith,
of patient hope, and quiet, brave endurance,
with childlike trust that fears not pain nor death.
Grant them the joy which brightens earthly sorrow,
grant them the peace which calms all earthly strife;
and to life's day the glorious unknown morrow
that dawns upon eternal love and life.
Dorothy F. Gurney (1858–1932)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Felix" by F. Mendelssohn-Bartholdy (1809–47)
Tune "Strength and Stay" by J. B. Dykes (1823–76)
Notes:
Ref: HON 573
Ref: HON 573
O praise ye the Lord
O praise ye the Lord! Praise Him in the height;
rejoice in his word, ye angels of light;
ye heavens adore him by whom ye were made,
and worship before him, in brightness arrayed.
O praise ye the Lord! Praise him upon earth,
in tuneful accord, ye sons of new birth;
praise him who hath brought you his grace from above,
praise him who hath taught you to sing of his love.
O praise ye the Lord, all things that give sound;
each jubilant chord re-echo around;
loud organs, his glory forth tell in deep tone,
and, sweet harp, the story of what he hath done.
O praise ye the Lord! Thanksgiving and song
To him be outpoured all ages along:
for love in creation, for heaven restored,
for grace of salvation, O praise ye the Lord!
Henry William Baker (1821-1877)
Based on Psalms 148 and 150
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
rejoice in his word, ye angels of light;
ye heavens adore him by whom ye were made,
and worship before him, in brightness arrayed.
O praise ye the Lord! Praise him upon earth,
in tuneful accord, ye sons of new birth;
praise him who hath brought you his grace from above,
praise him who hath taught you to sing of his love.
O praise ye the Lord, all things that give sound;
each jubilant chord re-echo around;
loud organs, his glory forth tell in deep tone,
and, sweet harp, the story of what he hath done.
O praise ye the Lord! Thanksgiving and song
To him be outpoured all ages along:
for love in creation, for heaven restored,
for grace of salvation, O praise ye the Lord!
Henry William Baker (1821-1877)
Based on Psalms 148 and 150
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Laudate Dominum" by Charles Hubert Hastings Parry (1848-1918)
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: HON 574
Ref: HON 574
O worship the King
O worship the King, all glorious above,
O gratefully sing His power and His love;
our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days,
pavilioned in splendor, and girded with praise.
O tell of His might, O sing of His grace,
whose robe is the light, whose canopy space,
his chariots of wrath the deep thunderclouds form,
and dark is His path on the wings of the storm.
The earth with its store of wonders untold,
almighty, thy power hath founded of old;
established it fast by a changeless decree,
and round it hath cast, like a mantle, the sea.
Thy bountiful care, what tongue can recite?
it breathes in the air, it shines in the light;
it streams from the hills, it descends to the plain,
and sweetly distills in the dew and the rain.
Frail children of dust, and feeble as frail,
in Thee do we trust, nor find Thee to fail;
thy mercies how tender, how firm to the end,
our maker, defender, redeemer, and friend.
O measureless might! Ineffable love!
while angels delight to worship Thee above,
the humbler creation, though feeble their lays,
with true adoration shall all sing Thy praise.
Robert Grant (1779-1838)
Based on Psalm 104
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
O gratefully sing His power and His love;
our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days,
pavilioned in splendor, and girded with praise.
O tell of His might, O sing of His grace,
whose robe is the light, whose canopy space,
his chariots of wrath the deep thunderclouds form,
and dark is His path on the wings of the storm.
The earth with its store of wonders untold,
almighty, thy power hath founded of old;
established it fast by a changeless decree,
and round it hath cast, like a mantle, the sea.
Thy bountiful care, what tongue can recite?
it breathes in the air, it shines in the light;
it streams from the hills, it descends to the plain,
and sweetly distills in the dew and the rain.
Frail children of dust, and feeble as frail,
in Thee do we trust, nor find Thee to fail;
thy mercies how tender, how firm to the end,
our maker, defender, redeemer, and friend.
O measureless might! Ineffable love!
while angels delight to worship Thee above,
the humbler creation, though feeble their lays,
with true adoration shall all sing Thy praise.
Robert Grant (1779-1838)
Based on Psalm 104
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Hanover" by William Croft (1678-1727)
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: HON 582
Ref: HON 582
One more step along the world I go
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Sydney Bertram Carter (1915-2004) © 1971 Stainer & Bell Ltd, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Sydney Bertram Carter (1915-2004) © 1971 Stainer & Bell Ltd, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Southcote" by Sydney Bertram Carter (1915-2004)
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: HON 595
Ref: HON 595
Praise, my soul, the King of heaven
Praise, my soul, the King of heaven!
To his feet thy tribute bring;
ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,
who like me his praise should sing?
Praise him! Praise him! Praise him! Praise him!
Praise the everlasting King!
Praise him for his grace and favour
to our fathers in distress;
praise him still the same as ever,
slow to chide and swift to bless:
Praise him! Praise him! Praise him! Praise him!
Glorious in his faithfulness!
Father-like, he tends and spares us;
well our feeble frame he knows;
in his hands he gently bears us,
rescues us from all our foes:
Praise him! Praise him! Praise him! Praise him!
Widely as his mercy flows!
Angels, help us to adore him;
ye behold him face to face;
sun and moon bow down before him,
dwellers all in time and space:
Praise him! Praise him! Praise him! Praise him!
Praise with us the God of grace!
H. F. Lyte (1793–1847), based upon Psalm 103
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
To his feet thy tribute bring;
ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,
who like me his praise should sing?
Praise him! Praise him! Praise him! Praise him!
Praise the everlasting King!
Praise him for his grace and favour
to our fathers in distress;
praise him still the same as ever,
slow to chide and swift to bless:
Praise him! Praise him! Praise him! Praise him!
Glorious in his faithfulness!
Father-like, he tends and spares us;
well our feeble frame he knows;
in his hands he gently bears us,
rescues us from all our foes:
Praise him! Praise him! Praise him! Praise him!
Widely as his mercy flows!
Angels, help us to adore him;
ye behold him face to face;
sun and moon bow down before him,
dwellers all in time and space:
Praise him! Praise him! Praise him! Praise him!
Praise with us the God of grace!
H. F. Lyte (1793–1847), based upon Psalm 103
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Praise, my soul" by John Goss (1800–80)
Notes:
Ref: HON 623
Ref: HON 623
Praise the Lord, ye heavens, adore him
Praise the Lord, ye heavens, adore him!
Praise him, angels, in the height;
sun and moon, rejoice before him,
praise him, all ye stars and light.
Praise the Lord, for he hath spoken;
worlds his mighty voice obeyed:
laws, which never shall be broken,
for their guidance he hath made.
Praise the Lord, for he is glorious;
never shall his promise fail:
God hath made his saints victorious;
sin and death shall not prevail.
Praise the God of our salvation;
hosts on high, his pow’r proclaim;
heav’n and earth and all creation,
laud and magnify his name!
Worship, honour, glory, blessing,
Lord, we offer tot they name;
young and old, thy praise expressing,
join their Saviour to proclaim.
As the saints in heav’n adore thee.
we would bow before thy throne;
as thine angels serve before thee,
so on earth thy will be done.
Based upon Psalm 148 from the Foundling Hospital Collection (c. 1796)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Praise him, angels, in the height;
sun and moon, rejoice before him,
praise him, all ye stars and light.
Praise the Lord, for he hath spoken;
worlds his mighty voice obeyed:
laws, which never shall be broken,
for their guidance he hath made.
Praise the Lord, for he is glorious;
never shall his promise fail:
God hath made his saints victorious;
sin and death shall not prevail.
Praise the God of our salvation;
hosts on high, his pow’r proclaim;
heav’n and earth and all creation,
laud and magnify his name!
Worship, honour, glory, blessing,
Lord, we offer tot they name;
young and old, thy praise expressing,
join their Saviour to proclaim.
As the saints in heav’n adore thee.
we would bow before thy throne;
as thine angels serve before thee,
so on earth thy will be done.
Based upon Psalm 148 from the Foundling Hospital Collection (c. 1796)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Abbott's Leigh" by Stewart Cross (1928–89)
Notes:
Ref: HON 625
Ref: HON 625
Praise to the Lord, the almighty, the king of creation
Praise to the Lord, the almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise him, for he is thy health and salvation:
Come ye who hear,
Brothers and sisters, draw near,
Praise him in glad adoration!
Praise to the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth,
Shelters thee under his wings, yea, so gently sustaineth:
Hast thou not seen
All that is needful hath been
Granted in what he ordaineth?
Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee!
Surely his goodness and mercy shall daily attend thee:
Ponder anew
All the Almighty can do,
He who with love doth befriend thee.
Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore him!
All that hath life and breath come now with praises before him!
Let the amen
Sound from his people again:
Gladly for aye we adore him!
Joachim Neander (1650-1680), trans. Catherine Winkworth (1827-1878)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
O my soul, praise him, for he is thy health and salvation:
Come ye who hear,
Brothers and sisters, draw near,
Praise him in glad adoration!
Praise to the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth,
Shelters thee under his wings, yea, so gently sustaineth:
Hast thou not seen
All that is needful hath been
Granted in what he ordaineth?
Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee!
Surely his goodness and mercy shall daily attend thee:
Ponder anew
All the Almighty can do,
He who with love doth befriend thee.
Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore him!
All that hath life and breath come now with praises before him!
Let the amen
Sound from his people again:
Gladly for aye we adore him!
Joachim Neander (1650-1680), trans. Catherine Winkworth (1827-1878)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Lobe den herren" from "Praxis Pietatis Melica" (1668)
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: HON 628
Ref: HON 628
Seek ye first the kingdom of God
The words for verse 1 of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here.
Verses 2 and 3 follow:
You shall not live by bread alone,
but by ev’ry word
that proceeds from the mouth of God.
allelu, alleluia.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, allelu, alleluia. / You shall not ...
Ask and it shall be given unto you,
seek and ye shall find;
knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Allelu, Alleluia.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, allelu, alleluia. / Ask and it shall ...
All verses may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Verse 1 Karen Lafferty (b. 1948), © 1972 Maranatha! Music, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Verses 2 and 3 follow:
You shall not live by bread alone,
but by ev’ry word
that proceeds from the mouth of God.
allelu, alleluia.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, allelu, alleluia. / You shall not ...
Ask and it shall be given unto you,
seek and ye shall find;
knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Allelu, Alleluia.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia, allelu, alleluia. / Ask and it shall ...
All verses may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Verse 1 Karen Lafferty (b. 1948), © 1972 Maranatha! Music, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Seek ye first" by Karen Lafferty (b. 1948)
Notes:
Ref: HON 652
Ref: HON 652
Tell out, my soul
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Timothy Dudley-Smith and Walter Greatorex © 1961 Dudley-Smith, Timothy (Admin. by Oxford University Press), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Timothy Dudley-Smith and Walter Greatorex © 1961 Dudley-Smith, Timothy (Admin. by Oxford University Press), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Woodlands" by Walter Greatorex (1877-1949)
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: HON 692
Ref: HON 692
That human life might richer be
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
John L. Bell and Graham Maule © 1989 WGRG, Iona Community, Glasgow, Scotland, G2 3DH (Admin. by Wild Goose Resource Group), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
John L. Bell and Graham Maule © 1989 WGRG, Iona Community, Glasgow, Scotland, G2 3DH (Admin. by Wild Goose Resource Group), CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Sussex Carol" Traditional English Melody collected and arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958)
Notes:
Ref: CofE
Ref: CofE
The grace of Life is theirs
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Fred Pratt Green © 1970 Stainer & Bell Ltd, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Fred Pratt Green © 1970 Stainer & Bell Ltd, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Darwall's 148th" by John Darwall (1731-1789)
The music to this hymn may be listened to on the CofE website.
Notes:
Ref: CofE
Ref: CofE
The King of love my shepherd is
The King of love my shepherd is,
whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am his
and he is mine for ever.
Where streams of living water flow
my ransomed soul he leadeth,
and where the verdant pastures grow
with food celestial feedeth.
Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,
but yet in Love he sought me,
and on his shoulder gently laid,
and home, rejoicing, brought me.
In death's dark vale I fear no ill
with thee, dear Lord, beside me;
thy rod and staff my comfort still,
thy cross before to guide me.
Thou spread'st a table in my sight;
thy unction grace bestoweth:
and O what transport of delight
from thy pure chalice floweth!
And so through all the length of days
thy goodness faileth never:
good Shepherd may I sing thy praise
within thy house for ever.
H. W. Baker (1821–77)
Based on Psalm 23
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am his
and he is mine for ever.
Where streams of living water flow
my ransomed soul he leadeth,
and where the verdant pastures grow
with food celestial feedeth.
Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,
but yet in Love he sought me,
and on his shoulder gently laid,
and home, rejoicing, brought me.
In death's dark vale I fear no ill
with thee, dear Lord, beside me;
thy rod and staff my comfort still,
thy cross before to guide me.
Thou spread'st a table in my sight;
thy unction grace bestoweth:
and O what transport of delight
from thy pure chalice floweth!
And so through all the length of days
thy goodness faileth never:
good Shepherd may I sing thy praise
within thy house for ever.
H. W. Baker (1821–77)
Based on Psalm 23
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Dominus Regit me" by J. B. Dykes (1823–76)
Notes:
Ref: HON 715
Ref: HON 715
The Lord's my shepherd (Traditional)
Tune "Crimond" by Jessie Seymour Irvine (1836-1887)
Words for tune "Crimond"
The Lord's my shepherd, I'll not want.
He makes me down to lie
in pastures green, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
My soul he doth restore again,
and me to walk doth make
within the paths of righteousness,
e'en for his own name's sake.
Yea, though I walk in death's dark vale,
yet will I fear no ill.
For thou art with me, and thy rod
and staff me comfort still.
My table thou hast furnishèd
in presence of my foes,
my head thou dost with oil anoint,
any my cup overflows.
Goodness and mercy all my life
shall surely follow me.
And in God's house for evermore
my dwelling-place shall be.
From "The Scottish Psalter" (1650)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
He makes me down to lie
in pastures green, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
My soul he doth restore again,
and me to walk doth make
within the paths of righteousness,
e'en for his own name's sake.
Yea, though I walk in death's dark vale,
yet will I fear no ill.
For thou art with me, and thy rod
and staff me comfort still.
My table thou hast furnishèd
in presence of my foes,
my head thou dost with oil anoint,
any my cup overflows.
Goodness and mercy all my life
shall surely follow me.
And in God's house for evermore
my dwelling-place shall be.
From "The Scottish Psalter" (1650)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Brother James's Air" by Brother James Leith Macbeth Bain (d.1925)
Words for tune "Brother James's Air"
The Lord's my shepherd, I'll not want.
He makes me down to lie
in pastures green, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
My soul he doth restore again,
and me to walk doth make
within the paths of righteousness,
e'en for his own name's sake.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
Yea, though I walk in death's dark vale,
yet will I fear no ill.
For thou art with me, and thy rod
and staff me comfort still.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
My table thou hast furnishèd
in presence of my foes,
my head thou dost with oil anoint,
any my cup overflows.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
Goodness and mercy all my life
shall surely follow me.
And in God's house for evermore
my dwelling-place shall be.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
From "The Scottish Psalter" (1650)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
He makes me down to lie
in pastures green, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
My soul he doth restore again,
and me to walk doth make
within the paths of righteousness,
e'en for his own name's sake.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
Yea, though I walk in death's dark vale,
yet will I fear no ill.
For thou art with me, and thy rod
and staff me comfort still.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
My table thou hast furnishèd
in presence of my foes,
my head thou dost with oil anoint,
any my cup overflows.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
Goodness and mercy all my life
shall surely follow me.
And in God's house for evermore
my dwelling-place shall be.
He leadeth me, he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.
From "The Scottish Psalter" (1650)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Notes:
Ref: HON 723
Ref: HON 723
The Lord's my shepherd (Townend)
The words of this version are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Stuart Townend (b.1963), © 1996 Thankyou Music CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Stuart Townend (b.1963), © 1996 Thankyou Music CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune by Stuart Townend (b.1963)
Notes:
Ref: HON 724
Ref: HON 724
These vows of love are taken
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Susan Sayers (b. 1946), © 2004 Kevin Mayhew Ltd, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Susan Sayers (b. 1946), © 2004 Kevin Mayhew Ltd, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Thaxted" Gustav Holst (1874-1934)
Notes:
Ref: HON 749
Ref: HON 749
Thine for ever! God of love
Thine for ever! God of love,
hear us from thy throne above;
thine for ever may we be
here and in eternity.
Thine for ever! Lord of life,
shield us through our earthly strife;
thou the life, the truth, the way,
guide us to the realms of day.
Thine for ever! O how blest
they who find in thee their rest!
Saviour, guardian, heav’nly friend,
O defend us to the end.
Thine for ever! Shepherd’ keep
us thy frail and trembling sheep;
safe within thy tender care,
let us all thy goodness share.
Thine for ever! Thou our guide,
all our wants by thee supplied,
all our sins by thee forgiv’n,
lead us, Lord, from earth to heav’n.
M. F. Maude (1819–1913)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
hear us from thy throne above;
thine for ever may we be
here and in eternity.
Thine for ever! Lord of life,
shield us through our earthly strife;
thou the life, the truth, the way,
guide us to the realms of day.
Thine for ever! O how blest
they who find in thee their rest!
Saviour, guardian, heav’nly friend,
O defend us to the end.
Thine for ever! Shepherd’ keep
us thy frail and trembling sheep;
safe within thy tender care,
let us all thy goodness share.
Thine for ever! Thou our guide,
all our wants by thee supplied,
all our sins by thee forgiv’n,
lead us, Lord, from earth to heav’n.
M. F. Maude (1819–1913)
Copyright has expired. Permission to reproduce these words in your order of service is not required.
Tune "Newington" by W. D. Maclagan (1826–1910)
Notes:
Ref: HON 752
Ref: HON 752
We pledge to one another
The words of this hymn are copyright and cannot be reproduced here, but they can be seen on the CofE website.
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Jill Jenkins (b. 1937) © Jill Jenkins, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
They may be printed on your order of service with the following acknowledgement:
Jill Jenkins (b. 1937) © Jill Jenkins, CCLI Licence No. [available on request]
Tune "Thaxted" Gustav Holst (1874-1934)
Notes:
Ref: AMRW350
Ref: AMRW350
Except as otherwise noted the content of this website is
Copyright © Clifford C. Brown 2006–2025, all rights reserved.
Notices