The Old Year Now Hath Passed Away
The old year now hath passed away
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran emphasis on God's sustaining grace through life's changes and the Christian's continual need for Christ's abiding presence. It reflects the Small Catechism's teaching on repentance and trust in God's daily mercies.
History & Background
Written by Friedrich Behm in 1657 as a New Year's hymn for Lutheran worship, originally titled "Das alte Jahr ist nun dahin." Catherine Winkworth's 1863 English translation became the standard version in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 263
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 125
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Friedrich Behm (1657), this hymn teaches the Small Catechism's wisdom: we confess our failures honestly, yet trust wholly in God's daily mercy. Luther's legacy of repentance rooted in grace echoes throughout.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the confession of human frailty into a declaration of faith in Christ's constancy—a perfect theological pivot from Law to Gospel that your sermon on God's enduring mercy or the comfort of Christ's abiding presence can amplify and deepen.
Themes
God's grace and faithfulness Repentance and renewal Dependence on Christ Transition and change