The story behind: All Creatures of Our God and King

The hymn “All Creatures of Our God and King” has a rich history that dates back several centuries. It is based on a medieval hymn called “Canticle of the Sun” or “Cantico di Frate Sole” in Italian, which was written by Saint Francis of Assisi around the year 1225. Saint Francis, a Catholic friar and preacher, is widely known for his love and appreciation of nature.

The original text of “Canticle of the Sun” was written in the Umbrian dialect of Italian and was not meant to be sung as a hymn initially. It was a poetic prayer expressing Francis’ profound gratitude and reverence for God’s creation. The hymn praises God for the beauty and harmony of the natural world, attributing various aspects of creation to the glory of God.

Over time, the words of “Canticle of the Sun” were translated into different languages, including English, and eventually set to music. The most popular English translation was made by William Henry Draper in 1919. Draper’s translation, which closely follows the original text, became the basis for the hymn “All Creatures of Our God and King” as we know it today.

The hymn’s melody, known as “Lasst uns erfreuen,” is a traditional German tune that was first published in a hymnal called “Geistliche Kirchengesänge” in 1623. This melody was later paired with Draper’s English translation, creating the familiar hymn we sing today.

“All Creatures of Our God and King” has become one of the most beloved hymns in the Christian tradition, celebrated for its joyful and exultant praise of God’s creation. It continues to be sung in various Christian denominations and has been recorded by numerous artists over the years, cementing its place as a timeless hymn of worship and gratitude.