“Faith of our Fathers” based on Hebrews 11:6 is an “oldie but goodie” hymn I sang as a youth. It was written in 1849by Frederick William Faber. I was surprised to learn it was written in memory of the Catholics martyred during the establishment of the Church of England by Henry VIII and Elizabeth. During that time in British history, a Catholic monarch declared the country Catholic and a Protestant monarch endorsed the Church of England. A person could be martyred for being on the wrong side of the throne! That touches our American heritage in the flight of the Pilgrims to our shores seeking religious freedom.
Faber wrote two versions of the hymn: one with seven stanzas for Ireland, and another with four for England. The Irish version was sung at hurling matches until the 1960s. But regardless of where it is sung, the lyrics remind us of the faith that we celebrated this week on All Saints Day and that is foundational to our spiritual heritage. We thank God for those who have gone before us and who were martyred for their beliefs. Let us pray for those for whom their life is in danger because of their faith.
Faith of our Fathers! living still In spite of dungeon, fire, and sword: Oh, how our hearts beat high with joy Whene’er we hear that glorious word. Faith of our Fathers! Holy Faith! We will be true to thee till death.
Our Fathers, chained in prisons dark, Were still in heart and conscience free: How sweet would be their children’s fate, If they, like them, could die for thee! Faith of our Fathers! Holy Faith! We will be true to thee till death.
Faith of our Fathers! we will love Both friend and foe in all our strife: And preach thee too, as love knows how By kindly words and virtuous life: Faith of our Fathers! Holy Faith! We will be true to thee till death.
On the Way to Wonder 