God, We've Known Such Grief and Anger

God, we've known such grief and anger
As we've heard your people cry.
We have asked you, "How much longer?"
We have sadly wondered, "Why?"
In this world of so much suffering,
May we hear your word anew:
"I will never leave you orphaned;
I will not abandon you."

By your grace comes resurrection;
By your love, you cast out fear.
You give strength and sure direction
As we seek to serve you here.
You give comfort to the grieving,
And you bless the ones who mourn.
May we trust in you, believing
Out of chaos, hope is born.

Hope is ours for, God, you love us!
You have claimed us by your grace.
And through Jesus, you have called us
To bring hope to every place.
In each rescue worker's caring,
In each faithful volunteer,
In each Christian's love and sharing,
God, we glimpse your kingdom here.

Biblical References: John 14:18; I John 4:18; Matthew 5:11, 28:16-20; and John 17:18

Suggested Tune: In Babilone 8.7.8.7 D ("There's a Wideness in God's Mercy"), Dutch melody, arranged by Julius Rontgen (1855-1933) Hymn tune is in the public domain.

Alternative tune: John R. Kleinheksel Sr.. Download a PDF file (63 kb) of Mr. Kleinheksel's music.

Text: Written by Rev. Carolyn Winfrey Gillette for the anniversary of September 11th, this hymn can also be used to support Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. Copyright © 2002 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved.

This hymn was commissioned by Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) for the congregational resource Out of the Depths: Voices of the Presbyterian Faith Community at Work After September 11, an anniversary publication. Permission is granted for this hymn's free use by churches that support Church World Service.