All are Welcome (Let us build a house)

This is a gathering hymn about radical inclusion and the purpose of the church. It was written for the opening of a church-building, but was quickly used more generally.

It was written by American Lutheran composer and pastoral musician, Marty Haugen (b 1950), and first published by GIA Publications, USA in 1994.

A Spanish-language translation, Todos bienvenidos son, was made by American Roman Catholic priest, Ronald F. Krisman (b 1946) and George Lockwood (b. 1946). This has not become as popular as the English-language version.

With meter 9.6.8.6.8.7.10 with refrain. it is set to a tune by Huagen which is called TWO OAKS. This has a 4/4 time signature. In the key of F, the first few notes of the melody are CD F G A GA F D C with accompanying chords C7 / F / C / F / Bb / C.

The hymn has been widely used in Roman Catholic churches in some countries, especially the USA. However concerns have been expressed about certain theological aspects, including the idea of welcoming all vs calling all to repentance, the description of Eucharist, and the idea it is Jesus - not us- who are building the church (although the song is about building the "house" not the "people of God"). As a result, in some places, the song is not recommended.

Image adapted from PiqSels

Downloads

This section may contain affiliate links: I earn from qualifying purchases on these. Free downloads are provided where possible (eg for public domain items).

SATB choir setting - with guitar chords

Downloadable version arranged for SATB choir, assembly, with keyboard, brass and percussion

Examples

Original recording (duet with band) plus on-screen words

Choir with electronic keyboard - recorded live in a church-service

Virtual choir, with instruments

Choir with organ, recorded live

Soloist and choir, with Celtic band

Singer with synth-backing track, words on-screen

Small group with piano and cello

Lyrics

The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available on this website. A rough outline is:

1. Let us build a house where love can dwell and all can safely live ...

Chorus:

All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

2. Let us build a house where prophets speak, and words are strong and true ...

3. Let us build a house where love is found in water, wine, and wheat ...

4. Let us build a house where hands will reach beyond the wood and stone ...

5. Let us build a house where all are named, their songs and visions heard ....