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.