Holy Cross Music Notes for May 31, 2026

We will gather this Sunday with “All Creatures of Our God and King,” a widely recognized English Christian hymn originally written by St. Francis of Assisi around 1225. The hymn is a poetic paraphrase of St. Francis’s famous Italian poem, the Canticle of the Sun (Canticum Solis). The modern English translation we sing today was adapted by Anglican priest William Henry Draper in the early 20th century.

Our processional hymn is “Holy, Holy, Holy!”, a beloved Christian hymn written by Reginald Heber. Inspired by biblical visions of heavenly worship in Isaiah 6:1–3 and Revelation 4:8, the lyrics emphasize the majesty of God. This hymn beautifully focuses on the Trinity and divine praise.

Our Sequence hymn is one of my personal favorites, “How Great Is Our God,” written by Chris Tomlin, Jesse Reeves, and Ed Cash. Released in 2004, the song serves as a powerful declaration of God’s majesty, eternal nature, and sovereignty. It is also an easy and joyful song to sing together.

Please sing with the choir during the offertory hymn, “Trinity Song,” a contemporary Christian worship song written by singer-songwriter Sandra McCracken. First released in 2016, the song is celebrated for its simple, meditative structure and focus on the Holy Trinity. The song features a short, repeating lyrical loop designed for contemplative prayer and worship.

Take a listen here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIH8keLM0VQ

During communion, we will sing “Fairest Lord Jesus” (also known as “Beautiful Savior”), a classic 17th-century Christian hymn celebrating the beauty, purity, and supremacy of Jesus Christ over all creation.

The service will close with a Holy Cross favorite, “We Are Called,” a contemporary Christian hymn written and composed by David Haas in 1988. The verses encourage us to “live in the light,” “show mercy to all those in fear,” and work toward a day when all are “united in love.”