We Bid Thee Welcome in the Name
We bid thee welcome in the name
This hymn expresses the welcoming nature of the church as the body of Christ and emphasizes the Christian community's responsibility to steward the faith entrusted to them. It reflects the Lutheran understanding of the priesthood of all believers and mutual encouragement within the congregation.
History & Background
Martin Behm wrote this German hymn in the early 17th century as a welcome hymn for those received into the church. Catherine Winkworth translated it into English in 1863 for her influential collection of German Lutheran hymns.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 262
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 484
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Martin Behm in 1610, this hymn expresses the Reformation conviction that all baptized believers share in Christ's priestly work. It became central to Lutheran reception liturgies, grounding hospitality in sacramental theology.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran doctrine of the priesthood of all believers: the entire congregation, not clergy alone, bears responsibility for welcoming, nurturing, and stewarding faith in the body of Christ.
Themes
Baptism Welcome into the faith community Trinitarian blessing Church membership