The Old Year Now Has Passed Away
The old year now has passed away
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran confidence in God's providence and sustaining grace throughout the passage of time. It grounds New Year's observance not in human resolutions but in faithful dependence on God's continued mercies.
History & Background
Friedrich Rückert composed this German hymn in 1842 for New Year's reflection. Catherine Winkworth translated it into English in 1863, making it widely available in English-speaking Lutheran churches.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 294
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 125
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by German Romantic poet Friedrich Rückert in 1842, this hymn grounds New Year's faith in providence rather than personal willpower, reflecting Lutheran emphasis on God's grace sustaining us through time's passage.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms New Year observance from self-reliant striving into Gospel trust: acknowledging human weakness and sin (the Law of the old year) while celebrating God's unwavering mercy and renewal in Christ (the Gospel of the new).
Themes
God's faithfulness Year's passage Divine mercy Christian perseverance Trust in God