Disaster response hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette
Tune: HERZLIEBSTER JESU 11.11.11.5 by Johann Cruger, 1640
("Ah, Holy Jesus")

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!

Text: Copyright © 1999 Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved.
Carolyn Winfrey Gillette gives free one-time use of this hymn to congregations that support Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. This hymn was originally written in response to the shootings at Columbine High School.
Carolyn Winfrey Gillette and Bruce Gillette are pastors at Limestone Presbyterian Church, 3201 Limestone Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19808-2198. Carolyn is the author of Gifts of Love: New Hymns for Today's Worship (Geneva Press, 2000).
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