Jesus, our Master, on the night that they came

Today is Maundy Thursday. It is called Holy Thursday in the Roman Church.

It commemorates the Washing of Feet, the Last Supper, and the Betrayal of Jesus.

It is a difficult and complex liturgical service, as it turns from an almost "celebratory" mood to one of darkness and terror. It is the ONLY time in Lent that the "Gloria in excelsis" is sung, often accompanied by the ringing of bells.

This text is really "just" a Communion Hymn, but it deals well with the idea of unity and remembrance as set forth at the Last Supper.

The fine text, written by Michael Hewlett (1916-2000), has a "modern" feel to it, and the "refrain-type" conclusion of each verse is effective and memorable. I'm surprised that this hymn hasn't found its way into more hymnals, as it really is a very good one.

The music was composed by Benjamin Milgrove (1731-1810) who was not only an organist, but who owned in a toy shop on Bond Street in Bath! :-)

The name of the tune is "Harwich" and there is one full verse of introduction.

Jesus, our Master, on the night that they came
To take you to prison, to death and to shame,
You called to your table the friends that you knew,
And asked them to do this in remembrance of you.

Still through the ages your new friends draw near,
And know when they do so, that you will be here;
We know you are present, though just out of view,
To meet those who gather in remembrance of you.

When it is over, and all gone away,
Come back to our thoughts for the rest of the day,
And stay with us always, who met here to do
The thing you commanded, in remembrance of you.