From the Pastor's Pen

Welcome, Palm Sunday!

Tomorrow morning we will sing one of the ancient hymns of the church: “All Glory, Laud and Honor!”  This great hymn was written in Latin in 820 A.D. by Theodulf of Orleans.  Theodulf was made the Bishop of Orleans in France and the Abbot of several monasteries in that region when Charlemagne was the Holy Roman Emperor. Theodulf was a kind and hospitable man.  He believed in always keeping the door open and never refusing pilgrims, travelers or the poor if they needed a meal or a place to stay for the night. Theodulf thrived as the Bishop of Orleans starting many public schools outside the monasteries in order to educate the children, and he oversaw these schools himself. 

Unfortunately for Theodulf, when Charlemagne died, his son Louis the Pious was not a fan.  He believed Theodulf was involved in a plot to overthrow him and had him imprisoned in the Monastery at Angers.  It was while he was at Angers that he wrote the hymn poem, “All Glory Laud and Honor.”  A legend relates that one Palm Sunday, Louis was on his way with the crowds to Palm Sunday services and heard someone singing this now famous hymn.  When asking about the singer he discovered it was Theodulf himself, and promptly had him released.

Whether the story is true or not, it is clear that Theodulf wrote this beautiful hymn during a time of great hardship.  May all our times of trial lead us to praise God!

Peace,

Pr. Sally

All glory, laud, and honor to Thee, Redeemer, King!

To Whom the lips of children made sweet Hosannas ring,