528 The Church’s Mission
1. Lord, you give the great commission;
"Heal the sick and preach the word."
Lest the Church neglect its mission
and the gospel go unheard,
help us witness to your purpose with renewed integrity;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
2. Lord, you call us to your service;
"In my name baptize and teach."
That the world may trust your promise,
life abundant meant for each,
give us all new fervor, draw us closer in community;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
3. Lord, you make the common holy;
"This my body, this my blood."
Let your priests, for earth’s true glory,
daily lift life heavenward,
asking that the world around us
share your children’s liberty;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
4. Lord, you show us love’s true measure:
"Father, what they do, forgive."
Yet we hoard as private treasure
all that you so freely give.
May your care and mercy lead us to a just society;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
5. Lord, you bless with words assuring:
"I am with you to the end."
Faith and hope and love restoring,
may we serve as you intend,
and amid the cares that claim us, hold in mind eternity;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
Words:Jeffrey Rowthorn (b. 1934) Music: Rowthorn, Alec Wyton (b. 1921)
Music: Copyright 1985 by Hope Publishing Company. All Rights Reserved. Used by Permission by The Hymnal 1982.