Jesu, Joy of Our Desiring (and other verses)

Description

This arrangement of Bach’s masterpiece was created for the 2012 Lutheran Summer Music Concert Choir and includes a simplified accompaniment for keyboard/piano. It now includes multiple texts for use throughout the year—three anthems in one score! Can be sung with other (more complex) versions of the accompaniment.

Text by Robert Bridges, alt. – General Use

Jesu, joy of our desiring, Holy wisdom, love most bright; Drawn by Thee, our souls aspiring Soar to uncreated light. Word of God, our flesh that fashioned, With the fire of life impassioned, Striving still to truth unknown, Soaring, dying round Thy throne.

Text by John Henry Hopkins, Jr – Communion (ELW 501)

Come with us, O blessed Jesus, with us evermore to be. And in leaving now thine altar, Let us nevermore leave thee! Let thy bright celestial chorus never cease their heav’nly strain, but in us, thy loving children, come with peace, good will to reign.

Text by Bernhardt S. Ingemann, alt. – Lent or Pigrimage (ELW 327)

Through the night of doubt and sorrow Onward goes the pilgrim band, Singing songs of expectation, Marching to the promised land. Clear before us through the darkness Gleams and burns the guiding light: Brother clasps the hand of brother, Stepping fearless through the night.