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Hail, O Source of Every Blessing

Hail, O source of every blessing

Hail, O Source of Every Blessing is a hymn text by Johann Franck (1661) in L.M. (8.8.8.8) meter. Translated by Catherine Winkworth. Found in lsb 409, lw 84, tlh 129. Sung to WAREHAM.

The hymn exemplifies Lutheran appreciation for divine sovereignty and the universal scope of Christ's redemption, reflecting the Reformed-influenced theology of Franck's ecclesiastical context. Its ascription of blessing, guidance, and eternal care to the Triune God aligns with Lutheran doctrine concerning God's providential governance and salvific purposes.

History & Background

Originally written in German as 'Gott des Himmels und der Erden' by Johann Franck in 1661, this hymn was translated into English by Catherine Winkworth in her influential collection published in 1863. The hymn became established in Lutheran hymnals through successive editions.

Hymnal Appearances

  • Lutheran Service Book — 409
  • Lutheran Worship — 84
  • The Lutheran Hymnal — 129

Translation

Catherine Winkworth

Bulletin Note

Penned by Johann Franck in 1661, this hymn exemplifies Lutheran theology's confidence in God's universal redemptive will. Its tune, Gott des Himmels und der Erden, echoes the German Reformation's devotional richness.

Preaching Connection

This hymn amplifies the Gospel's proclamation of divine sovereignty and grace by directing the hearer's gaze from human anxiety toward the eternal, faithful provision of the Triune God—a response that both comforts the burdened conscience and summons joyful obedience.

Stanza Arc

The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christ's compassionate presence amid human suffering and social chaos, calling the Church to incarnational witness and mercy

In the Church Year

Suggested in the one-year series

  • Epiphany 1 (2×)
  • Baptism of Our Lord (1×)
  • Epiphany 2 (1×)
  • Epiphany 3 (1×)

Suggested in the three-year series

  • Epiphany 2 (1×)
  • Epiphany 5 (1×)

From LCMS Worship's published hymn suggestions, 2014–2026. The count is how many of those yearly lists suggested this hymn for that day.

Themes

Adoration of Christ Divine majesty Guidance of the Holy Spirit Universal salvation Praise

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