Father, We Praise You
Father, we praise you, now the day is over
The hymn expresses evening prayer as a moment of committing oneself to God's protection and care, reflecting Lutheran confidence in divine providence. It emphasizes the rhythm of daily worship and trust in God's guardianship through the night hours.
History & Background
Written by Sabine Baring-Gould in 1867 as an evening hymn, first published in church hymnals in the late 19th century. The hymn became widely adopted in Lutheran, Anglican, and ecumenical worship traditions.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 243
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 267
- Lutheran Service Book — 875
- Lutheran Worship — 482
Bulletin Note
Written by English hymnologist Sabine Baring-Gould in 1867, this evening hymn anchors daily worship in God's protection, embodying the Lutheran rhythm of confession, trust, and grace throughout the liturgical day.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens proclamation of the Gospel by transforming human dependence and fear of darkness into confident trust in divine protection—answering the Law's exposure of our vulnerability with the mercy of God's constant care.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Baptism Small Catechism — Holy Baptism
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Evening prayer progression: praise for day's completion → gratitude for rest → confession and divine illumination → petition for protection through night and spiritual guidance
Themes
Evening worship God's protection Rest and trust Daily praise Divine care