Kate & William's Wedding: The Meaning Behind The Hymns

The wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton was a global spectacle, a fairytale brought to life. But beyond the stunning visuals and the royal pomp, the ceremony was deeply rooted in tradition, and nowhere was this more evident than in the choice of hymns. These weren't just songs; they were carefully selected pieces that reflected the couple's values, their faith, and their hopes for the future. So, let's dive into the beautiful hymns that echoed through Westminster Abbey on that unforgettable day, and explore the significance they held.

"Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer"

"Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer", also known as "Bread of Heaven," is a powerful and emotive hymn that has resonated with generations. Its inclusion in the royal wedding was particularly poignant, adding a layer of depth and meaning to the ceremony. Guys, this hymn is a classic for a reason! It’s a prayer for guidance and strength, a plea for divine support on life's journey. Think about it – starting a marriage is a huge step, and asking for a little help from above? Definitely a good move.

The history of this hymn is fascinating. It was originally written in Welsh by William Williams Pantycelyn in 1745, titled "Arglwydd, arwain trwy'r anialwch" ("Lord, lead thou through the wilderness"). The English translation, which we sing today, came later and has become incredibly popular, especially in Wales. The words evoke images of pilgrimage and reliance on God's provision, drawing parallels between the Israelites' journey through the desert and the challenges and uncertainties of life. The lyrics, rich with symbolism, speak of God as a protector and provider, offering comfort and assurance in times of need. Phrases like "Bread of Heaven, feed me till I want no more" are particularly powerful, conveying a deep sense of spiritual hunger and the desire for divine sustenance. The hymn’s melody, Cwm Rhondda, is equally stirring, contributing to its overall emotional impact. It’s the kind of tune that stays with you long after you've heard it. Choosing this hymn for their wedding, Kate and William signaled their reliance on faith as they embarked on their married life. It was a public declaration of their commitment to seeking guidance and strength from a higher power as they navigated the complexities of their roles and responsibilities. The inclusion of "Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer" also subtly acknowledged the weight of expectation and the immense pressure that comes with being a part of the royal family. It was a reminder that even in the midst of a grand celebration, a humble plea for divine assistance is always appropriate. In essence, this hymn wasn't just a musical interlude; it was a prayer, a statement of faith, and a heartfelt expression of hope for the future.

"Love Divine, All Loves Excelling"

"Love Divine, All Loves Excelling" is another hymn that speaks volumes about the values and beliefs of the couple. Penned by Charles Wesley, brother of John Wesley (the founder of Methodism), this hymn is a joyful celebration of divine love. This hymn is all about the overwhelming, boundless nature of God's love. It's a hymn that overflows with joy and gratitude. The words paint a picture of a love that is perfect, pure, and all-encompassing, a love that has the power to transform and heal. Phrases like "Joy of heaven to earth come down" and "Fix in us thy humble dwelling" express a deep longing for God's presence and a desire to be filled with His love. The hymn also speaks of the transformative power of love, its ability to overcome sin and imperfection. Lines such as "Take away our bent to sinning; Alpha and Omega be; End of faith, as its beginning" highlight the desire to be made new and whole through God's grace. The melody, Blaenwern, is uplifting and triumphant, perfectly complementing the joyous message of the lyrics. When Kate and William chose this hymn, they were making a bold statement about the importance of love in their lives and their commitment to building their marriage on a foundation of faith and devotion. It was a declaration that they saw their love as a reflection of God's love, a love that is both powerful and transformative. This hymn selection also subtly acknowledged the challenges of marriage and the need for a love that can endure through difficult times. It was a recognition that human love, while beautiful and important, is ultimately imperfect and requires the constant infusion of divine grace to thrive. "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling" is often sung at weddings because it beautifully encapsulates the ideals of Christian marriage: love, commitment, and a shared faith. By including it in their ceremony, Kate and William were aligning themselves with this tradition and expressing their hope for a marriage that would be blessed and sustained by God's love.

"Jerusalem"

And finally, "Jerusalem", a stirring anthem that evokes a sense of national pride and spiritual aspiration. While not strictly a hymn in the traditional sense, its inclusion in the royal wedding added a unique dimension to the ceremony. "Jerusalem" is based on a poem by William Blake and set to music by Hubert Parry. The words are inspired by the biblical story of Jesus' visit to England and the idea of building a New Jerusalem, a perfect society, in the country. The hymn is a call to action, urging listeners to strive for justice, peace, and righteousness in the world. The lyrics are powerful and evocative, filled with images of beauty, strength, and determination. Phrases like "And did those feet in ancient time walk upon England's mountains green?" and "Bring me my bow of burning gold: Bring me my arrows of desire" are particularly memorable, igniting a sense of patriotism and spiritual fervor. The melody is equally stirring, building to a triumphant climax that leaves a lasting impression. The choice of "Jerusalem" for the royal wedding was significant for several reasons. First, it was a nod to British history and culture, celebrating the nation's heritage and values. Second, it was a call to service, reminding the couple of their responsibilities to the country and its people. And third, it was a statement of hope, expressing a desire for a better future for Britain and the world. This selection also served to broaden the appeal of the wedding, reaching out to those who may not have been particularly religious but who shared a love for their country and a desire for a more just and equitable society. "Jerusalem" is a hymn that transcends religious boundaries, appealing to people of all faiths and backgrounds who are united by a common vision of a better world. By including it in their wedding ceremony, Kate and William signaled their commitment to serving the nation and working towards a brighter future for all. Guys, this hymn isn't just about religion; it's about national pride and striving for a better world.

The Enduring Significance

So, there you have it! The hymns chosen for Kate and William's wedding weren't just pretty tunes; they were carefully selected pieces that reflected the couple's values, their faith, and their hopes for the future. They added a layer of depth and meaning to the ceremony, making it all the more memorable and meaningful. These hymns weren’t just songs sung on a single day; they were declarations of faith, hope, and love that continue to resonate today. They serve as a reminder of the enduring power of tradition and the importance of faith in shaping our lives and relationships. The selections of these hymns offers insight into the couple's personal beliefs and values. It speaks to their deep-rooted faith, their commitment to service, and their hope for a brighter future. The hymns served as a reminder of the weight of tradition and the importance of their roles within the monarchy. They are a call to humility, reminding the couple that their marriage and their lives are not just about them but also about serving a higher purpose. The legacy of these hymns extends far beyond the wedding day. They continue to be sung in churches and cathedrals around the world, inspiring and uplifting congregations with their timeless messages of faith, hope, and love. They serve as a reminder of the beauty and power of sacred music and its ability to connect us to something larger than ourselves.