A Thanksgiving prayer
words by Adrianus Valerius, 1625
English translation by Theodore Baker, 1894
music: Nederlandtsch Gedenckclanck, 1626
harmonized by Eduard Kremser, 1877
A beautiful melody and hymn from the Netherlands. The Dutch brought it to New York when it was still called New Amsterdam. It has elements of traditional Dutch folk songs and contains many expressions of gratitude.
Sheet music from The Presbyterian Hymnal:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
- We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing
He chastens and hastens His will to make known
The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing
Sing praises to His name; He forgets not His own - Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining
Ordaining, maintaining His kingdom divine
So from the beginning the fight we were winning
Thou, Lord, wast at our side; all glory be Thine - We all do extol thee, Thou leader triumphant
And pray that Thou still our defender wilt be
Let Thy congregation escape tribulation
Thy name be ever praised! O Lord, make us free
Sung here by Fred Feild: