MELITA
The original chant melody associated with this text is found in most hymnals of denom inations where chant has played a role, including the Lutheran tradition, which has produced much organ music on this well-known chant. The setting here is byJohn B. Dykes , originally composed as a setting for William Whiting’s “Eternal Father, Strong to Save.” Published in Hymns Ancient and Modern (1861) with that text, MELITA is often referred to as the “navy hymn.” The tune is named after the island of Malta where Paul was shipwrecked. A fine tune, MELITA is marked by good use of melodic sequences and a harmony that features several dominant sevenths (both are Dykes’s trademarks). Sing in harmo ny; because the lines flow into each other in almost breathless fashion, use a stately tempo. Liturgical Use: Pentecost; ordination or commissioning services; baptism; profession of faith. -
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law (human helplessness amid natural chaos) → Gospel (Christ's dominion and protection through Trinity) → Petition (divine shield for the vulnerable)