Holy Spirit Hear Us
Holy Spirit, hear us
This hymn embodies Lutheran emphasis on the Holy Spirit's active role in prayer and spiritual life, consistent with Luther's catechetical teaching on invocation of the Spirit. It reflects the Reformation conviction that direct appeal to God through the Holy Spirit is the privilege of all believers.
History & Background
Ludwig Helmbold composed this hymn in German as 'Heiliger Geist, du Tröster mein' (Holy Spirit, thou Comforter mine) in 1575, originally appearing in Protestant hymnals. Catherine Winkworth translated it into English in the 19th century, making it accessible to English-speaking Lutheran congregations.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 264
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 229
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Ludwig Helmbold in 1575, this hymn embodies Luther's catechetical teaching that believers may invoke the Holy Spirit directly in prayer—a Reformation conviction that democratized access to God's grace for all the baptized.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Gospel truth that the Spirit intercedes for us in our weakness, turning the Law's exposure of our inadequacy into Gospel comfort through the Spirit's present aid.
Themes
invocation of the Holy Spirit aid in prayer spiritual gifts intercession divine assistance