Kyrie! God, Father in Heaven Above
Kyrie! God, Father in heaven above
This hymn expresses core Lutheran theology regarding human sinfulness, divine mercy, and the threefold petition for compassion from the Trinity. It connects medieval liturgical tradition with Reformation vernacular worship, emphasizing that mercy comes through Christ alone.
History & Background
Martin Luther composed this German Kyrie in 1529 as part of his liturgical reforms, pairing it with the melody that became standard in Lutheran worship. The text entered English Lutheran hymnody through 19th-century translations and has remained a foundational piece in Lutheran service music.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 409
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 168
- Lutheran Service Book — 942
- Lutheran Worship — 209
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 6
- Voices Together — 232
Translation
Composite (multiple translators)
Bulletin Note
Luther's 1529 hymn recovers the medieval liturgical Kyrie for vernacular worship, transforming a Latin prayer into German grace. It remains a touchstone of Lutheran piety—sin acknowledged, mercy received through Christ alone.
Preaching Connection
This hymn enfolds the entire Law-Gospel arc: it names our sin and unworthiness unflinchingly, then pivots to rest everything on Christ's intercession, making it a perfect devotional companion to any sermon on justification or the sufficiency of grace.
Themes
Kyrie/Mercy petition Trinity Forgiveness of sins Grace and redemption Worship and liturgy