WE GATHER TOGETHER

By Tim Claubaugh

TEXT: “Wilt heden nu treden,” Netherlands folk hymn; Trans. by Theodore Baker, 1851 – 1934
MUSIC: “Neder-landtsch Gedenckclanck,” 1626; harm. by Edward Kremser, 1838 – 1914
TUNE: KREMSER
METER: 12 11 12 11

Not much has be written about this popular hymn of thanksgiving. Austin C. Lovelace, in his book, “Hymn Notes for Church Bulletins,” writes, “The original Dutch text was a patriotic song written at the end of the 16th century to celebrate the release of the Netherlands from Spanish rule. It’s theme is the providence of God and the prayer “O Lord, make us free!” Edward Kremser, director of a male choral society in Vienna, first arranged the old folksong for men’s voices.”



1. 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.

2. Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining,
Whose kingdom calls all to the love which endures.
So from the beginning the fight we were winning:
You, Lord, were at our side; all glory be yours!

3. We all do extol you our leader triumphant,
And pray that you still our defender will be.
Let your congregation escape tribulation:
Your name be ever praised! O Lord, make us free!