Hymn Desk
Hymn Texts /

Here O Lord I See You Face to Face

Here, O Lord, I see You face to face

The hymn expresses the Lutheran doctrine of the Real Presence of Christ's body and blood in Holy Communion, where the believer encounters Christ directly in the sacrament rather than merely symbolically. It reflects the sacramental union (not transubstantiation) affirmed at the Reformation, where Christ's true presence coexists with bread and wine.

History & Background

Written in Latin by Molanus around 1589 as a meditation on the Real Presence in the Eucharist, emphasizing direct encounter with Christ. Translated into English by John Casper Mattes in 1911 for use in Lutheran hymnals.

Hymnal Appearances

  • Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 230
  • Lutheran Book of Worship — 211
  • Lutheran Service Book — 631
  • Lutheran Worship — 243

Translation

John Casper Mattes

Bulletin Note

Written by Gerhard Molanus in 1589, this hymn defends the Lutheran doctrine of sacramental union—Christ's body and blood truly present, yet not through transubstantiation—offering believers direct communion without priestly mediation.

Preaching Connection

This hymn embodies the Gospel's answer to our deepest longing: direct access to Christ's presence and power, offered freely in the sacrament, which both comforts the conscience and stirs grateful faith.

Catechism & Confessional Connections

Themes

Sacramental theology Real Presence Eucharistic devotion Incarnation Fellowship with Christ

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