614 The Lord Bless You and Keep You
From the Authorized Version of the Aaronic blessing in Numbers 6:24-26, with order of verses 25 and 26 reversed.
MUSIC. The musical setting, the original of which has an elaborate contrapuntal and sevenfold “Amen,” not suitable for congregational use, was written as a farewell to William Smedley, choirmaster at the St. James Protestant Episcopal Church, Chicago. Without Smedley’s knowledge the congregation, all kneeling, sang this with great effect, after the benediction, at the service of farewell.
For comments on Peter C. Lutkin see Hymn 390.