If You But Knew the Gift of God

Words: Robert Loretz
Music: Robert Loretz
This hymn uses the ancient introit form of antiphon and verses. The antiphon is newly composed and is in the phrygian mode, while the verses use the traditional psalm tone melody for Mode 3. The words are all from the Scriptures, mainly from the writings of St John, and are pertaining to the mystery of the Thirst of Christ on the cross, as well as the mystery of the pierced side, from which flows the springs of living water. The modal music is reverent in tone. The antiphon is intended for congregation, while the verses are more suited to a cantor. There are many verses available, and they can be varied depending on the emphasis wanted. The music is especially suited to accompany a procession (as for Entrance, Offertory or Communion), especially on a solemn day, when incense is used and so the procession is longer. The hymn is also effective during a healing or Reconciliation service.

Signup to Access

Unlimited access
License for non-commercial use
Complete audio & scores
Individual

US $99 /year

For personal, non-commercial use
Get Started
Church/Parish

US $99 /year

For church services
Get Started
Diocese

US $799 /year

For use in church services throughout the diocese
Get Started

Related Sacred Music

Te Deum

This lilting tune in the dorian mode has a triumphal feel that gives the words of the Te Deum a…

O God of Truth

This hymn takes the words of St. Ambrose of Milan and adds the invocation in Hebrew: "Yeshua Maranatha" (Come Lord…

O Cross, Our Only Trophy

This familiar tune makes this hymn very accessible for Parish singing. It is especially appropriate for the feast of the…

O Cross, Our Only Hope

This lilting music in the Mixolydian Mode (Mode VII) gives the impression of a ballade or love-song to the Holy…

All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name (Crown Him Lord of All)

The mood is triumphant and evocative of the Medieval Court. The second verse can be sung with the descant for…

Where Your Heart Is, There Will Be Your Treasure

This hymn is based on two gospel passages.The first is from the sermon on the mount and is an exhortation…

To Love God Above All Things

The chorus of the this hymn can be used as a stand alone hymn. The words are adapted from Venerable…

The Lamb His Sheep Redeems

This hymn is especially good for the Easter Season from Easter Sunday until Pentecost but can also be used in…

O Beauty Ever Ancient

This hymn uses a hauntingly beautiful Norwegian folk melody to set words adapted from the Confessions of St. Augustine, from…

Our affordable 
plans

Unlimited access
License for non-commercial use
Complete audio & scores
Individual

US $99 /year

For personal, non-commercial use
Get Started
Church/Parish

US $99 /year

For church services
Get Started
Diocese

US $799 /year

For use in church services throughout the diocese
Get Started
Our Testimonials

What others are saying about us