Handel’s Foundling Hospital Anthem explores how caring for those in need and supporting the vulnerable can create change, both for others and in ourselves. In a world that sometimes feels fractured and divided, this anthem brings a message of unity and hope, encouraging us to reflect on how we can make a difference in the lives of others.
Handel composed the Foundling Hospital Anthem in 1749 as a charitable work to support the Foundling Hospital (now Coram), a London institution established in 1739 dedicated to caring for babies whose mothers were unable to care for them. Deeply moved by the hospital’s mission, Handel offered his talents to aid its fundraising efforts. The anthem, which incorporates sections of his earlier works, including the famous “Hallelujah” chorus from Messiah, was performed at a benefit concert, helping to raise significant funds for the hospital and is a clear testament of Handel’s commitment to using his art for social good.
The anthem opens with text adapted from Psalm 41[3] and the Book of Job (Psalm 41 and Job 29:11). The famous “Hallelujah” chorus is derived from the Book of Revelation (Revelation 19:6 and Revelation 11:15).
Blessed are they that considereth the poor and needy:
the Lord will deliver them in time of trouble,
the Lord preserve them and comfort them.
They deliver the poor that crieth, the fatherless
and him that hath none to help him.
The Lord will comfort them.
O God, who from the suckling’s mouth
ordaineth early praise,
of such as worship Thee in truth
accept the humble lays.
The charitables shall be had in everlasting remembrance
and the good will shine as the brightness of the firmament.
Comfort them, O Lord, when they are sick:
make thou their bed in sickness.
Keep them alive, let them be blessed upon the earth
and not deliver them unto their foes.
Hallelujah!
The Kingdom of this world
is become the kingdom of our Lord
and of His Christ,
and He shall reign forever and ever.
Hallelujah!
If you are interested in this piece and want to learn more about Handel’s philanthropy and its ongoing legacy, please read this blog post from the charity Coram, who partnered with The English Concert for an event to celebrate the addition of this video to the Handel for All library.
