Gott, der du warst und bist und bleibst

It is also known by the title of its refrain, "Wir haben hier keine bleibende Stadt" (We have no lasting residence here).

The hymn was written for the conclusion of a festive service for the inauguration of the new Seminary Church at the Sankt Georgen Graduate School of Philosophy and Theology in Frankfurt in 1993.

[1][2] The texts of all seven parts of the mass were written by Eugen Eckert, used for introit, Kyrie, Halleluja, intercessions, Sanctus, thanks, and conclusion.

[3] The song was first performed in the mass on 24 April 1993, with the choir and instrumental ensemble of Sankt Georgen conducted by the composer.

[2] The setting appears in the choral collection of NGL songs Vom Leben singen (Singing of Life).

Eugen Eckert , who wrote the text, in Frankfurt in 2008