On December 1, 2024, at Pender United Methodist Church’s traditional service, the closing hymn was the beloved Advent classic "Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates", accompanied by Heidi Jacobs on piano.
This hymn, originally written by Georg Weissel and translated by Catherine Winkworth, is a meaningful selection for the first Sunday in Advent. Its powerful lyrics and melody carry a message of hope and anticipation, reminding us to prepare for the coming of Christ.
The hymn’s origins trace back to a devastating time in 17th-century Europe during the Thirty Years' War (1618–1648). The conflict between Protestant princes of Bohemia and the Catholic Emperor led to immense suffering, including widespread disease and famine. Despite this dark backdrop, the hymn emerged as a beacon of faith, resilience, and spiritual preparation.
