We are people created,
chosen by God.
Then we’re washed, ever gently,
in mercy and love.
Sin has power no more.
Jesus opened the door
to a fountain bringing healing,
and wholeness and more.
Ascension’s sending hymn for Sunday, January 8, 2023, the Baptism of Our Lord, is “Baptized and Set Free”, ELW 453. The text speaks to our being received by God through the waters of baptism, the continual regeneration we receive through that sacrament, and the life to which we are called as we live out that gift.
“Baptized and Set Free” is the only hymn written and composed by Cathy Skogen-Soldner to be included in a hymnal (Evangelical Lutheran Worship). Skogen-Soldner is an active composer outside the realm of the hymnal. Her focus is on writing music and musicals for preschoolers and school-age children, as well as orders of worship for contemporary services. She began composing while a youth and children’s ministry director in St. Paul, MN.
