The text of a hymn should drive the registrational plan. As with many hymns, the text of this hymn suggests various “registrational directions.” For the purposes of this example, we will proceed according to this plan:
This concept of expansion might be realized by an expansion outward (richness) as well as upward (brightness). We will increase in volume through the verses: from simple support through a fuller and richer ensemble. The simple support might best be registered through Great principal tone at 8' and 4' pitch. With verse 2 we will couple to the Great a fuller and slightly brighter Swell. At verse 3 we will add “fire” to the Swell, with a slightly fuller Great. The Pedal must stay balanced throughout.