We Are Called to Stand Together
We are called to stand together
The hymn reflects Lutheran emphasis on the communion of saints and the ongoing witness of the faithful across generations, rooted in Hebrews 11's exemplars of faith. It expresses the corporate nature of Christian discipleship and the encouragement believers receive from those who have gone before, consistent with Lutheran sacramental and ecclesiastical theology.
History & Background
Written by Jaroslav Vajda in 1983, this modern hymn draws inspiration from Hebrews 11's 'cloud of witnesses' passage. It was first published in Lutheran hymnals in the 1980s and has become a contemporary standard for expressing Christian solidarity and shared faith.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 720
- Lutheran Service Book — 828
Bulletin Note
Composed in 1983 by Lutheran hymnologist Jaroslav J. Vajda, this hymn draws on Hebrews 11's cloud of witnesses, expressing the corporate discipleship central to Lutheran ecclesiology and the ongoing reformation of the Church.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Gospel's promise that grace sustains believers across generations, transforming the Law's demand for faithfulness into joyful participation in the communion of saints and a living apostolic succession of witness.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Third Article (Concerning Sanctification) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christological anticipation (St. 1-2) → Incarnational paradox (St. 3) → Pneumatological reign (St. 4)
Themes
Christian fellowship and unity Faith as a pilgrim journey Witnessing community The communion of saints Perseverance in faith