We Praise Thee O God Our Redeemer Creator
We praise thee, O God, our Redeemer, Creator
This hymn expresses the Lutheran doctrine of creation and providence, celebrating God as both Creator and Redeemer who sustains all things. It reflects the Lutheran emphasis on thankfulness for God's gifts and recognition of divine care over all creation.
History & Background
Written by Julia Cady Cory in 1902, this hymn was first published in the Methodist hymnal and later adopted by Lutheran traditions. It became widely used in American Protestant hymnals throughout the 20th century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 9
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 862
- Glory to God — 612
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 241
- Lutheran Service Book — 785
- Lutheran Worship — 494
- New Century Hymnal — 34
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 568
- United Methodist Hymnal — 9
Bulletin Note
Written in 1902 by Julia Cady Cory, this hymn reflects Dutch Reformed tradition (tune Kremser) while articulating distinctly Lutheran doctrine: God's creative power and redemptive grace are inseparable gifts deserving perpetual thanksgiving.
Preaching Connection
This hymn anchors Lutheran theology's insistence that the God who creates is the God who redeems in Christ, inviting the congregation to respond to grace with active praise and service.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Second Article (Concerning Redemption) Small Catechism — The Apostles' Creed
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Grateful acknowledgment of God's redemptive work moving toward renewed commitment to corporate praise and service
Themes
God's providential care Redemption and creation Thanksgiving and praise God's sustaining grace