Open Hands

A Song Born from the Missions

“Open Hands” was not composed in a studio or a quiet chapel but in the heart of community life—on dusty roads, in soup kitchens, among laughter and labor, where people work and serve side by side.

It sums the spirit of Jesuit volunteer programs in Latin America, where young men and women spent their days teaching, building, and caring for those in need. From there words come naturally:

"Juntos andamos, un solo camino,

unidos en Cristo, hermanos y amigos…"

They are a reminder—they were not alone. Their hands, though emptied of material wealth, are full of purpose.

It fits perfectly in vibrant processions, the beat carried by hand drums and clapping. In youth retreats, where young Jesuits-in-formation can embrace its message as they prepared to take their vows. And as a hymn of solidarity among those working with impoverished communities.

How the Community Perceives It

It is more than just a song—it is a way of life. Its words capture the paradox of poverty: that in giving all, one gains everything.

It does not demand, it does not preach—it simply invites. It invites the singer to loosen their grip on possessions, to walk alongside others rather than ahead of them, and to trust that in serving, one is never truly in need.

For Jesuits and laypeople alike, the song carries deep meaning. It is a reminder that wealth is not measured by what we hold onto, but by what we are willing to give away.

Final Reflection

Like the vow of poverty itself, Open Hands does not belong to one person—it belongs to the community. It evolves, shaped by those who sing it, just as the Jesuit mission is shaped by those who live it. As long as there are people willing to serve, to love, and to walk lightly upon this earth, the song will be sung.

And as the final words echo—"Nada nos falta, todo es don, libres amamos con pasión"—it becomes clear: those with open hands will always find their hearts full.

An infectious energy that reflects the joy of living in service to others. The rhythm is light and steady, evoking the movement of people walking together in mission, free from burden and full of purpose. A blend of folk and Latin influences—acoustic guitar, rhythmic hand percussion, and warm vocal harmonies—creates a sound that feels communal and inviting.

The lead vocal is clear and heartfelt, delivering the message with sincerity and warmth, as if calling out to companions on the journey. Harmonies and choral responses are woven throughout the song, reinforcing the theme of unity. In the chorus and bridge, the voices rise together, carrying the spirit of shared purpose, as if lifting each other up through the act of singing itself.

This is not a song of solitude, but of togetherness. It is sung with the conviction that a life lived with open hands—ready to give, to serve, to love—is a life that is truly full. Whether performed in a chapel, at a retreat, or in the streets among those in need, Open Hands is an anthem of freedom through generosity, reminding us that in giving all, we receive everything.

“Manos Abiertas”

[Intro]
Juntos andamos, un solo camino,
unidos en Cristo, hermanos y amigos.
Nada nos ata, todo es don,
somos familia en Su misión.

[Verso 1]
Manos abiertas, listas a dar,
corazones libres para abrazar.
Sin poseer, todo es mayor,
servir con gozo es nuestro honor.

[Coro]
Voy ligero, sigo el llamado,
en comunidad, nunca aislado.
Nada es mío, todo es don,
libres servimos con el corazón.

[Puente]
Donde haya herida, allí estaré,
donde haya hambre, compartiré.
Nada retengo, todo es amor,
somos un cuerpo en el Señor.

[Outro]

Juntos andamos, sin poseer,
en el servir, todo se ve.
Nada nos falta, todo es don,
libres amamos con pasión. 

Open Hands (Manos Abiertas)
(By Anonymous)

[Intro]

Together we walk, one single way,

United in Christ, as friends each day.

Nothing binds us, all is grace,

We are one family in His embrace.

[Verse 1]

Open hands, ready to give,

Free hearts, called to live.

Owning nothing, gaining more,

To serve with joy is our reward.

[Chorus]

I walk lightly, follow the call,

In community, never alone.

Nothing is mine, all is gift,

Freely we love, freely we live.

[Bridge]

Where there is pain, I will be near,

Where there is hunger, I will share.

Not to possess, but to let go,

For only in giving does love grow.

[Outro]

Together we walk, with nothing to claim,

In service, we find all things made plain.

Nothing is lacking, all is grace,

Freely we love, in His embrace.