Now We Join in Celebration
Now we join in celebration
The hymn expresses the corporate nature of Christian worship and the joy of gathered believers in sacramental celebration, reflecting Lutheran emphasis on communal worship and the means of grace. It bridges the personal experience of faith with the corporate expression of the body of Christ.
History & Background
Originally composed in Danish by Ludvig Hellelund in 1943. The hymn was translated into English by Carl Döving and appeared in Lutheran Worship materials, gaining prominence in LBW (1978).
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 462
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 203
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 217
- Voices Together — 459
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Ludvig Hellelund in 1943, this Norwegian hymn celebrates the sacramental joy of gathered believers, reflecting Lutheran theology of communal grace and the means of grace in corporate worship.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran conviction that grace reaches us not in isolation but through the corporate gathering and the sacraments, making it a fitting response to any proclamation that emphasizes how Christ builds and sustains His church.
Themes
celebration of faith community worship Christian fellowship sacramental life joy in salvation