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Author: Carl P. Daw Jr. Meter: 8.7.8.7 D Appears in 13 hymnals Lyrics: 1 God the Spirit, guide and guardian,
windsped flame and hov'ring dove,
breath of life and voice of prophets,
sign of blessing, pow’r of love:
Give to those who lead your people
fresh anointing of your grace.
Send them forth as bold apostles
to your church in ev’ry place.
2 Christ our Savior, sov’reign, shepherd,
Word made flesh, Love crucified,
teacher, healer, suff’ring servant,
friend of sinners, foe of pride:
In your tending may all leaders
learn and live a shepherd’s care.
Grant them courage and compassion
shown through word and deed and prayer.
3 Great Creator, life bestower,
truth beyond all thought’s recall,
fount of wisdom, womb of mercy,
giving and forgiving all:
as you know our strength and weakness,
so may those the church exalts
oversee its life steadfastly,
yet not overlook its faults.
4 Triune God, mysterious being,
undivided and diverse,
deeper than our minds can fathom,
greater than our creeds rehearse:
help us in our varied callings
your full image to proclaim,
that our ministries uniting
may give glory to your name. Topics: Church Leadership; God Images and Names of; Jesus Christ Images and Names of; Ordination; Sending; Trinity; Vocation Scripture: John 10:11-18 Used With Tune: TREASURED Text Sources: The United Methodist Hymnal
God the Spirit, Guide and Guardian