It was written by American Roman Catholic priest, teacher, playwright, folk-composer and author Willard F (Bill) Jabusch (1930-2018).
The song was included in What a Joy!, an album of praise songs by Jabusch, which is available from OCP Publications ( link below).
Hymn-books where it has been published in include:
It is set to an unnamed tune, which Jabusch adapted from a piece by Sebastian Bach (1685-1750). This has a 4/4 time signature. In the key of Y, the first few notes of the melody are DE F F F GF E E E with accompanying chords D / Bm / Em / D.
- 20th Century Folk Hymnal Volume 2 - Mayhew/McCrimmon, England 1975/76
- Celebration Hymnal for Everyone - McCrimmon Publications, 1994
- Hymns old and New - several editions, including Catholic 2008.
The last two are still in print, and are the only-located sources of sheet music for the song.
Downloads
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Examples
Cantor with backing track, recorded live in a church-service, with words on-screen:
Choir with piano:
Lyrics
The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available on this website. A rough outline is:1 We celebrate this festive day with pray'r joyful song.
Our Father's house is home to us, we know that we belong.
Chorus
The bread is broken, wine is poured,
a feast to lift us up!
Then thank the Lord Who gives Himself
as food and saving cup!
2. The door is open, enter in and take your place by right.
For you've been chosen as His guest to share His love and light.
3. We came together as the twelve came to the Upper Room.
Our Host is Jesus Christ the Lord, now risen from the tomb.
4. Who travel need both food and drink to help them on their way.
Refreshed and strong we'll journey on and face another day.
5. Who share this meal receive the Lord who live, though they were dead.
So death can hold no terrors now for those who eat this bread.
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