Alleluia Alleluia Give Thanks
Alleluia, alleluia, give thanks to the risen Lord
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran emphasis on Christ's resurrection as the foundation of Christian hope and joy, connecting personal faith to communal celebration. It reflects Law-Gospel balance through the call to thanksgiving for redemption accomplished.
History & Background
Written by Donald Fishel in 1973 as a contemporary Christian worship song during the Jesus Movement era. The hymn gained widespread adoption in Lutheran and ecumenical worship through its inclusion in major hymnals beginning in the 1980s.
Surrounded by “alleluias, ” the text presents the good news of Scripture References Easter: Christ is risen! In this hymn we sing Pauline phrases that st. 3 = Rom. 6:6 proclaim the new life we have in the risen Christ. Gal. 2:20 Donald E. Fishel (b. Hart, MI, 1950) composed both text and tune “rather spontaneously” during the summer of 1971 in a house on Church Street in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The hymn was first sung in services of the Word of God Community in Ann Arbor, a charismatic Roman Catholic congregation that Fishel had then recentlyjoined; he later served that community as publications editor of Servant Music (1973-1981). Fishel received a bachelor’s degree in instrumental music educa tion from the University of Michigan in 1972 and a degree in computer science from Eastern Michigan University in 1983. Since then he has worked in the computer industry. 561 THE PSALMS, BIBLE SONGS, AND HYMNS
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 229
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 526
- Glory to God — 240
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 200
- New Century Hymnal — 240
- Psalter Hymnal — 402
- United Methodist Hymnal — 162
- Voices Together — 280
- With One Voice — 665
Liturgical Use
Easter; suitable for many other occasions, including baptism and profession of faith.
Bulletin Note
Written in 1973 by Donald Fishel, this contemporary hymn has become a beloved Easter staple. Its simple, singable melody and urgent repetition capture the early church's exuberant Alleluia—praise that cannot be contained.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Law-Gospel movement perfectly: Christ's resurrection announced as pure Gospel, and our grateful, joyful obedience flowing as the only fitting response to such grace.
Themes
Resurrection Thanksgiving and praise Rejoicing in Christ's victory Communal worship