Send O Lord Thy Holy Spirit
Send, O Lord, Thy Holy Spirit
The hymn emphasizes pneumatology and the necessity of the Holy Spirit for effective Christian witness and church growth. It reflects Lutheran emphasis on the Spirit's role in creating faith and sustaining the body of Christ.
History & Background
This hymn appears in various Lutheran hymnals from the 19th century onward with authorship unclear. It has been included in Lutheran worship tradition as a prayer for the Holy Spirit's work in the church.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Service Book — 681
- Lutheran Worship — 263
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 491
Bulletin Note
From the early 19th-century Lutheran tradition, this L.M. hymn in KOMMT HER ZU MIR sets a straightforward petition to a melody steeped in German Reformed hymnody, uniting voice with ancient Christian longing for Pentecost.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel's grace: our helplessness (the implicit Law) met by the Spirit's active, generous sending, freeing us for authentic witness and faith.
Themes
Holy Spirit Church renewal Spiritual empowerment Divine grace