Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ
Let us talents and tongues employ, reaching out with a shout of joy
A Eucharistic sending hymn connecting the sharing of bread and wine with the sharing of ourselves in mission. The vigorous, dance-like rhythm of the Jamaican folk tune gives the hymn an energy that contrasts with more sedate communion hymns.
History & Background
Written by Fred Kaan (1929-2009) in 1975 in collaboration with Jamaican composer Doreen Potter (1925-1980). One of the first major hymns from the Caribbean tradition to enter mainstream hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 674
Bulletin Note
Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ — Fred Kaan, 1975
Preaching Connection
The Eucharist as sending into mission — talents and tongues deployed for the kingdom.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Communion Small Catechism — Holy Communion
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From sacramental encounter with Christ to missional deployment of gifts in the world; movement from altar to street; communion as source of service
Themes
Mission Eucharist Caribbean Talents