In Holy Conversation
In holy conversation
In Holy Conversation is a hymn text by Timothy Dudley-Smith (2006) in 8.7.8.7 D meter. Found in CW21 722, elw 747, lsb 772. Sung to WAREHAM.
The hymn reflects Lutheran emphasis on the means of grace through prayer and God's active responsiveness to His people's petitions. It underscores the confidence believers may have in approaching God directly through Christ's mediation.
History & Background
Written by Timothy Dudley-Smith in 2006 as a contemporary hymn emphasizing prayer and God's promise to answer those who call upon Him. First published in Lutheran Service Book in 2006.
Hymnal Appearances
- Christian Worship: Hymnal — 722
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 747
- Lutheran Service Book — 772
Bulletin Note
Timothy Dudley-Smith (b. 1926) composed this contemporary hymn in 2006, capturing the Reformed and Lutheran conviction that prayer is covenantal speech—God's people addressing the God who has bound Himself to answer.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel's central promise: God actively hears and responds to His people's prayers through Christ, transforming our anxiety into bold confidence in His grace and faithfulness.
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
Background Research
LSB 772 (Hymn of the Day). Gregory J. Wismar (b. 1946), LCMS pastor in Connecticut and chairman of the LCMS Commission on Worship from 2004; two of his original texts and stanza translations in five other hymns are in LSB (see also LSB 782). He said the hymn came from his sense of the blessing prayer brings, 'a most special conversation, a holy and sanctified speaking with God' (Concordia University Chicago devotion, quoted in the LSB study), set against hurried texts and impersonal email. Stanza 1 defines prayer simply: God speaks and invites first, by saving us in Christ, and we answer as children bringing needs, with the Spirit interceding.
Sources: LCMS Worship, The Word in Song: Hymn of the Day Studies (Paul Gregory Alms).
In the Church Year
Hymn of the Day (Lutheran Service Book) for: Proper 11
Suggested in the three-year series
- Proper 11 (2×)
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
Prayer and intercession God's invitation to communion Confidence in divine response Christian fellowship