Importance: 89%
The Big Idea
The Gloria Patri or Little Doxology is distinguished from the Gloria in Excelsis. It is a common, simple, and old liturgical prayer. Formulations of it can be found from at least the 4th century and older.
It echoes the words of Baptism by using the full Triune name (Matthew 28:19) as well as glorifying God like the song of the angels (Luke 2:14).
Other Scriptural bases are:
- Romans 16:27
- Ephesians 3:21
- Philippians 4:20
- Revelations 1:6
Found in various places all over the Lutheran Service Book.
Traditional Physical Practice Surrounding It
Reed, The Lutheran Liturgy, p. 264
In old Lutheran circles the custom has been maintained to the present time of bowing the head in “due and lowly reverence” at the Gloria Patri and a the Name of Jesus throughout the service.
Versions as Appearing in the LSB
New English - LSB termination of all Psalms, also LSB p. 165, 185, etc.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever Amen.
Older English - LSB p. 200
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Extended Version - LSB p. 211
All glory to the Father, All glory to the Son, All glory to the Spirit, Forever Three in One; For as in the beginning, Is now, shall ever be, God’s triune name resounding Through all eternity.