Hymn for the communion of saints

A hymn for the beginning of new ministry, in a place where prayer has been valid. (Hebrews 11:32-12:2)

(Written to celebrate the installation of Sarah Foot as Dean of Christ Church in 2023.)

With saints of all the ages we praise our holy Lord,

whose death has opened heaven, whose life was once outpoured,

who lives and reigns forever, who makes his people one:

one with the saints in glory, with hope of life to come.

Our kindred are the saints who worked wonders with each breath 

and we like them are called by the God who conquered death.

So strengthened and befriended by those who went before,

may we like them bring healing, and like them hope restore.

*Here Frideswide sang God's praises, here prayer was daily heard,

a House on firm foundations and trusting in the Word,

and at this new beginning our prayers and praise arise:

O bless our priests and people, God merciful and wise.

We pray for all who worship, we pray for all who lead;

our loving God will give us the daily strength we need

to speak his words of wisdom, to be his hands of care, 

to serve him in his people, to turn to him in prayer.

So let us sing our praises and let us take our place 

with all the saints and angels, our lives reshaped by grace,

and by our faithful living God's love will be outpoured,

and all our words will witness the glory of the Lord.

Tune: Aurelia