Written in response to social disruption in the UK
Tune: Aurelia (The Church’s One Foundation)
Let’s pray against the vi’lence,
let’s pray against the fear,
let’s pray for peace and justice,
that calm may reappear,
that those who seek disruption
rethink, recoil, review,
that sanity and kindness
may soon break out anew.
Let’s pray for those who’re victims
of vi’lence, hate or fear,
for Southport’s dead and injured,
and all left grieving there,
for those who sought asylum,
new hope within our shores,
who’ve faced new threats and vi’lence
erupting at their doors.
Let’s pray for all who’re serving
to guard, protect us all,
that they may practice justice
in answer to each call.
Let’s pray for politicians
whose words calm or inflame,
that they may lead maturely,
help care and kindness reign.
Let’s pray for deep reflection
across society,
that sifts true fears from false ones,
rebuilds what’s fair and free.
May we, ourselves, re-question
our own role in the mix,
re-fire our own compassion,
help make a godly fix.
John has offered this hymn to be freely available for use.
Photo: Stained glass portrayal of murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170, Canterbury Cathedral, Kent
