Hymn Desk
Hymn Texts /

For All the Saints

For all the saints who from their labors rest

The great All Saints hymn, celebrating the communion of saints across time. The text moves from the saints who have died to the living church's participation in their victory, culminating in the vision of the city of God. The tune SINE NOMINE (meaning 'without a name') is a quintessentially English processional.

History & Background

Written by William Walsham How (1823-1897), Bishop of Wakefield, in 1864. Originally written for All Saints Day. The tune SINE NOMINE was composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958) specifically for this text in 1906.

Hymnal Appearances

  • Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 422
  • Gather 4th Edition — 971
  • Lutheran Book of Worship — 174
  • Lutheran Service Book — 677
  • Lutheran Worship — 191

Bulletin Note

For All the Saints — William Walsham How, 1864

Preaching Connection

All Saints Sunday — the communion of saints and the hope of resurrection.

Catechism & Confessional Connections

Stanza Arc

The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From saints' earthly rest through Christ's sustaining power to eschatological glory and eternal communion

Themes

Communion of Saints Death and Resurrection All Saints Hope

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