April 26/2026

The prelude is a set of variations based on hymn 206, "O Filii et Filiae", a tune which has been used for countless compositions.  The set was composed by the famous French composer, Francois Dandrieu (1682-1738), the prodigy who lived, played for churches, and composed in Paris.  

Our processional hymn is "Sing ye faithful, sing with gladness" (492), the popular 20th century hymn written by Christopher Dearnley.  

Back to the 18th c. for the Gospel hymn, "Savior like a shepherd lead us" (708);  I think this hymn is still loved by all.  

Our anthem uses the famous tune, "Brother James's Air", which in our hymnal is 517, but uses a different text.  This text is Psalm 23!  The setting is by the highly respected English composer and arranger, Gordon Jacob (1895-1984),

Communion hymns are 664, "My Shepherd will supply my need", and 304,"I come with joy to  meet my Lord".

Closing, we will sing the first 4 verses of one of the most well loved 19th c. hymns, "Alleluia!  sing to Jesus", 460.

The postlude is J. S. Bach's setting of the chorale, " In death's strong grasp the savior lay". To understand the intent of the chorale one must pay attention to the second part of the opening statement of the text: "But now the Lord is ris'n today, And brings us life from heaven".  It is a celebratory and joyous Easter hymn!