A Prayer for Our Children

God, we have heard it, sounding in the silence:
News of the children lost to this world's violence.
Children of promise! Then without a warning,
Loved ones are mourning.

Jesus, you came to bear our human sorrow;
You came to give us hope for each tomorrow.
You are our life, Lord God's own love revealing.
We need your healing!

Heal us from giving weapons any glory;
Help us, O Prince of Peace, to hear your story;
Help us resist the evil all around here;
May love abound here!

By your own Spirit, give your church a clear voice;
In this world's violence, help us make a new choice.
Help us to witness to the joy your peace brings,
Until your world sings!

Suggested Tune: Herzliebster Jesu 11.11.11.5 by Johann Cruger, 1640 ("Ah, Holy Jesus")

Text: Copyright © 1999 Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved.
This hymn was originally written in response to the shootings at Columbine High School.