Christopher Walker was certainly a favourite of the editors of “As One Voice”.
It can be purchased for download from OCP.
This is a stirring recessional indeed that probably needs a pipe organ, brass and massed voices for its major effect. It can be heard in all its pomp here. It is also very long if you are thinking of singing all six verses, so I think being selective would make sense – perhaps refrain – one verse – refrain and stop! or just the refrain twice.
Refrain
Send us as your blessing, Lord,
Send us in the pow’r of your Spirit,
To live the Good News.
Proclaiming your gospel of peace;
That all the world will come to believe;
Salvation and glory, and wisdom and power
Are yours, are yours.
Salvation and glory and wisdom and power are yours,
Now and forevermore!
Verse 1
Bless the lips of those proclaiming your Holy Word,
With a voice of truth revealing your glory.
That the sound of your Word will be a blessing to all.
Refrain
Verse 2
Bless the ears of all who wait for your Saving Word,
May your voice be heard by those you have chosen.
Make then strong in faith and hope to face the unknown.
Refrain
Verse 3
Be with those whose hands are blessed with your healing pow’r.
Through their touch awaken those in depression,
From their darkness lead them into your light.
Refrain
Verse 4
Bless all those who suffer hours of sickness and pain,
May they feel your caring hand is upon them,
Through their suffering reveal your crucified son.
Refrain
Verse 5
Bless all those in prison for their belief in you.
Be with them and help their lives be your witness.
Let their faith in you grow stronger hour by hour.
Refrain
Verse 6
Bless us all the music makers who sing your praise.
In our songs and music speak to your people;
That the music of heav’n will sound out here on the earth.
Refrain
© Christopher Walker 1987.