The original of this hymn was in Latin; it was published by Charles Coffin (see SDAH 117) in his Hymni Sacri (Sacred Hymns), 1736, and that same year in the Paris Breviary.

     The translation used here is from the Lutheran Book of worship, 1978, and is by John Chandler (1806-1876; see SDAH 117), with alterations, thus the indication, “translation composite.) Chandler also translated SDAH 117, “The Advent of our God,” the original of which was written by Charles Coffin.

     This hymn, based on the baptism of Jesus by John, is appropriate to be sung at a baptismal service. Stanza 2 is a reaffirmation of the baptismal vows, and the final stanza is a prayer for healing.

     The tune PUER NOBIS is one of the many variants of PUER NOBIS NASCITUR (see SDAH 129, “As It Fell On a Night”). It is an adaptation of an original tune by Michael Praetorius, who also arranged SDAH 131, ES IST EIN ROS.