This is a less well-known entry from the Marian Hymnal – but I find it refreshingly straightforward, and the sort of song that is simply fun to sing, particularly with children.
Here is the version in the Marian Hymnal (1984):
And here is the Slavonic.
Discussion
Like Mary, mother of us all, this song is of somewhat uncertain origin; but unlike that other hymn, it is eminently singable, and the text makes sense. (It might be particularly worth using with children.)’
One quibble: many of our songs and liturgical texts refer to Mary as the Mother of Christians, citing our Lord’s words to Saint John at the foot of the Cross (“Behold your mother”; John 19:27). This spiritual song, at least in the English translation, gives Mary a much more universal role.
I would probably omit it in a small collection of Marian hymns, but if there is room to include it (as is most likely), we should.
Thoughts or suggestions?
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