Here's a New Day”, Inviting Us to a 'Thin' Place Where Our Lives Touch Mystery

Here’s a New Day

Songs in Search of Meaning and Wholeness

A Resource for Worship and Reflection

Poems by

Helen Wiltshire

Music Selected, Arranged or Composed by Norman Inglis

2 ALPHABETICAL INDEX See pages 4 and 5 for THEMATIC INDEX

Title Tune Meter Themes Page

A Child is Born O Waly Waly 88.88 Our care for each new born child 6 A Journey Cruger 76.76 D Creation in a day’s journey 7 A Pilgrim People Slane 11.11.11.11 Life’s journey, inspired by forebears 8 A Prayer for Sacredness Ombersley 88.88 Awareness of the sacred in our lives 9 A Wedding Gift Amazing Grace 86.86 A song of blessing for a wedding 10 A Wedding Prayer Amazing Grace 86.86 A loving wedding prayer 11 A World of Beauty Gaelic Air 87.87 D Creation, wonder, joy 12 Abundant Life Original * 8.6.8.6 D Life to the full 13 Advent Waiting Lauds 7.7.7.7 Waiting with expectation 14 All Creation Abbot’s Leigh 8.7.8.7 D Celebration of Creation 15 As We Make a Space Original * 8.7.8.7 Making space for the sacred 16 Beatitude Song Christe Sanctorum 10.11.11.6 Jesus’ words of blessing 17 Behold French 86.86 How we perceive our world 18 Behold a Mystery Martham 88.88 Time (Ecclesiastes), riddles of life 19 Being Felicity 87.87 What we do with our lives 20 Beloved Carlisle 66.86 Responsibilities of discipleship 21 Benediction Song Original * 8.7.8.7 Benediction 22 Blessing of a Child Capetown 76.75 Infant baptism 23 Breathe in the Morning Air Love Unknown 66.66.444 Response to Psalm 23 24 Canticle of Creation Lasst Uns Erfruen 888888.12 Poem of St Francis of Assissi 25 Come and Share this Land Orientis Partibus 77.77 Welcome to refugees 26 Come to the wilderness Was Lebet 12.10.12.10 Time of testing in the wilderness 27 Come to us, O Spirit St Anthony Chorale - Pentecost 28 Darkness Savannah 7.7.7.7 Darkness is part of life 29 Dawn Hungarian Folk 77.65 The promise of a new day 30 Doubts and Faith Love Unknown 66.66.444 Honest questioning 31 Easter Day Original * 77.77.77 Faith, hope and love rising up at 32 Easter Epiphanies St Elisabeth 569.558 Journeying with the Magi 33 Explore, Engage, Embrace Ewing 76.76 D Responding to life’s richness 34 Faithful Seasons Au Clair de la Lune 65.65 D Celebrating the cycle of seasons 35 Forgiveness Quelle est cette - Questions about forgiveness 36 Friendship Scottish Trad 10.10.10.10 Value of friends 37 Gift of Grace Amazing Grace 8.6.8.6 Grace in life’s journey 38 Gifts of the Spirit Cresswell 88.97.97 Gifts - Life, Faith, Hope, Love 39 Give Thanks Kremser 12.11.12.12 Gratitude for life and our growing 40 God Is Beechwood (alt) 6.6.6.6 God in loving, giving, caring, grieving 41 God is the Genesis Franconia 6.6.8.6 The mystery of God 42 God of Mystery Beechwood 56.64 God in creation and within 43 God’s Love Puer Natus in Beth 86.8.10 God’s love born at Christmas 44 Grace and Peace Christus Der Ist 7.6.7.6 A blessing 45 Gratitude Quam Dilecta 66.66 Awareness and thankfulness 46 Harmony Original * 8.6.8.6 Towards a better world 47 Here in Community Hungarian Folk 77.65 Communion 48 Here in the Stillness St Elisabeth 569.558 Advent, waiting, longing 49 Here’s a New Day Woodlands 10.10.10.10 Gift of a new day 50 Imagine Original * 86.86 Caring for our planet 51 Joy Hungarian Folk 77.65 Response to simple joys 52 Kindness Aria Magic Flute 8.8.8.8.8.8 Little nameless, unremembered acts 53 Looking,expecting,trusting French 86.86 Reflecting on sacredness 54

3 Title Tune Meter Themes Page

Love is Born Original * 7.7.7.7.7.7 Advent, Christmas 55 Love is Making all Things New Gaelic Air 87.87D Our role in bringing newness 56 Love’s Forgiveness Hermitage 7.7.7.7 Courage to forgive 57 Love’s Joyfulness English Traditional 8.6.8.6 Advent, Christmas 58 Love Made Visible Hermitage 7.7.7.7 Expressions of Love 59 Mountains and Valleys Heathlands 77.77.77 Transfiguration 60 Nature’s Welcome Herrick’s Carol - Nature welcomes the Christ 61 Prayer Oxford 77.77 D Glimpses, shadows, understandings 62 Rejoice! Rejoice! Truth from Above 8.8.8.8 Advent, Christmas 63 Remember St Bernard 86.86 Caring for our threatened planet 64 Season of Gifts Aria Magic Flute 8.8.8.8.8.8 GIFT an acronym for Advent themes 65 See the World Clearly Tenderness 5.5.10 D Recognising Christ present 66 Song for Australia Original * 8.6.8.6.D Celebrating our Country 67 Stars Lobt Gott 8.6.8.8.6 The hope brought by the Christ 68 Stillness Mannheim 87.87.87 The sacred placechild of inner stillness 69 Talents to share Au Clair de la Lune 65.65 Beauty in artistic expression 70 Tears Original * 8.6.8.6 Tears – a gift 71 The Gift we All May Give Original * 76.76 D Reflecting on Paul’s hymn to love 72 The Hope we Call Immanuel My Dancing Day 88.88.748 Reflecting Isaiah’s hopes 73 The Love we Share Original * 88.88 D Love transforming our lives 74 Thresholds Original * 87.87 Standing on a new threshold 75 Tidings of Comfort and Joy God Rest Ye Merry - Good news of birth of Jesus 76 Times of Pain Original * 7.7.7.7 Reflection on Pain 77 Times of Pain (For Solo Voice) Original * - Reflection on Pain 79 Transforming Love Apple Tree Carol 88.88.88 Transforming presence of God 81 Trusting Original * 76.76 D Our journey of faith 82 Vigil for Christmas Eve Hungarian Folk - Waiting in expectation 83 We celebrate this Life St Cecilia 66.66 Remembering a loved one 84 Weave our Lives Together Glenfinlas 65.65 Reflection on Psalm 138 85 Wisdom Ottawa 87.87.77 From OT writings on wisdom 86 Within O Waly Waly 88.88 The riches of our inner lives 87

Tunes taken from current hymn books are not included with the words. Alternatives can be found by consulting the meter. Tunes marked * Original are by Norman Inglis and are included with the words. See below for note on use.

Preface As dawn light filters through the trees, the beauty of creation calls to us, “Here's a New Day”, inviting us to a 'thin' place where our lives touch mystery. To hold a newborn baby, to embrace a friend, to know the joy and pain of loving, to doubt, to wonder, to give thanks ..... these experiences of life have helped to create the poems. The poems have become songs, thanks to the skill of Norman Inglis. As well as fine-tuning the words, choosing and arranging the music and final compilation of the collection, he has also contributed a number of original and lovely tunes.

These songs also reflect the willingness of the Pilgrim community to explore new understandings of faith. This collection contains many new songs, together with most of the songs from earlier collections, some with revisions to words and tunes. Helen Wiltshire

* * * * * Usage of the Songs The words and tunes included of these songs are available freely for private usage. For public worship we request a contact (email to [email protected]) for formal permission, which will in normal circumstances be happily granted at no cost. In printed copies, acknowledgement of the source “Used with permission - Pilgrim Publishing, Adelaide, South Australia” should be included. For any other uses, please contact Pilgrim Publishing at the address above.

4 THEMATIC INDEX

THANKS, PRAISE & CREATION Page COMMUNITY Page A Journey 7 A Pilgrim People 8 A Prayer for Sacredness 9 Come and Share this Land 26 A World of Beauty 12 Forgiveness 36 All Creation 15 Friendship 37 Behold 18 Gifts of the Spirit 39 Behold a Mystery 19 Harmony 47 Breathe in the Morning Air 24 Here’s a New Day 50 Canticle of Creation 25 Kindness 53 Dawn 30 Love made Visible 59 Explore, Engage, Embrace 34 Love’s Forgiveness 57 Faithful Seasons 35 Song for Australia 67 Gift of Grace 38 The Gift We All May Give 72 Give Thanks 40 The Love we Share 74 Gratitude 46 Weave our Lives Together 85 Harmony 47 Here’s a New Day 50 Imagine 51 FAITH Joy 52 As we make space 16 Nature’s Welcome 61 Beatitude Song 17 Remember 64 Behold a Mystery 19 Stillness 69 Breathe in the Morning Air 24 Wisdom 86 Darkness 29 Doubts and Faith 31 LIFE Explore, Engage, Embrace 34 A Prayer for Sacredness 9 God Is 41 Abundant Life 13 God of Mystery 43 As we Make Space 16 Grace and Peace 45 Behold a Mystery 19 Joy 52 Being 20 Looking,expecting,trusting 54 Beloved 21 Prayer 62 Explore, Engage, Embrace 34 See the World Clearly 66 Forgiveness 36 Stillness 69 Friendship 37 Trusting 82 Gratitude 46 Kindness 53 JOURNEY Love is Making all Things New 56 A Journey 7 Love made Visible 59 A Pilgrim People 8 Love’s Forgiveness 57 Come to the Wilderness 27 Talents to share 70 Epiphanies 33 The Gift We All May Give 72 Looking, expecting,trusting 54 The Love we Share 74 Mountains and Valleys 60 Transforming Love 81 Thresholds 75 Trusting 82 Trusting 82 Within 87 Within 87

PEACE & JUSTICE SPIRIT Come and Share this Land 26 Come to us, O Spirit 28 Love made Visible 59 Gifts of the Spirit 39 Stars 68 The Gift We All May Give 72 The Love we Share 74 Talents to share 70 Transforming Love 81 Within 87 © Words and original tunes copyright Pilgrim Publishing

5 JESUS Page WEDDING Page As we Make Space 16 A Wedding Gift 10 Beatitude Song 17 A Wedding Prayer 11 Beloved 21 Come to the Wilderness 27 BENEDICTION & PARTING Forgiveness 36 Benediction Song 22 Mountains and Valleys 60 Grace and Peace 45 See the World Clearly 66 BAPTISM GOD’S NATURE Blessing of a Child 23 Darkness 29 God Is 41 CHILDREN God of Mystery 43 A Child is Born 6 God is the Genesis 42

ADVENT AND CHRISTMAS A Child is Born 6 Advent Waiting 14 BIBLICAL REFERENCES God’s Love 44 Matthew, Mark, Luke Here in the Stillness 49 Transfiguration – Mountains & Valleys 60 Love is Born 55 Temptation - Come to the Wilderness 27 Love’s Joyfulness 58 Baptism of Jesus – Beloved 21 Nature’s Welcome 61 Road to Emmaus Luke 24 – As we Make a Space 16 Rejoice! Rejoice! 63 Beatitudes – Beatitude Song 17 Season of Gifts 65 Stars 68 Matthew Ch 2 Epiphany - Epiphanies 33 The Hope We Call Immanuel 73 Tidings of Comfort and Joy 76 John Ch 10.10 – Abundant Life 13 Transforming Love 81 Vigil for Christmas Eve 83 1 Corinthians Ch 12 & 13 - Gifts of the Spirit 39

EPIPHANY Ch 13 – The gift we all may give 72 Epiphanies 33 Stars 68 Philippians Ch 4:8 A prayer for sacredness 9

LENT & EASTER Acts Ch 17 - Being 20 Beloved 21 Come to the Wilderness 27 Job Wisdom 86 Mountains and Valleys 60 Thresholds 75 1 Kings Ch 19:12 Elijah meets God - Stillness 69 Easter Day 32 Psalms ASCENSION & PENTECOST Psalm 23 - Breathe in the Morning Air 24 Come to us, O Spirit 28 Psalm 138 – Weave our lives together 85 Psalm 30 – Dawn 30 COMMUNION Here in Community 48 As we Make a Space 16 Proverbs Wisdom 86

GRIEF Ecclesiastes Ch 3 – Behold a mystery 19 Gift of Grace 38 Tears 71 Isaiah Times of Pain 77 Ch 59 - Epiphanies 33 Times of Pain (For Solo Voice) 79 The Hope we Call Immanuel 73 We celebrate this Life 84 Transforming love 81 © Words and original tunes copyright Pilgrim Publishing

A Child is Born Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: O Waly Waly

1 A child is born into our care; 3 A child is born in war-torn lands a gift from God, our lives to share; without the touch of loving hands; may we be wise and patient too may we reach out and strive for right aware of all we need to do. 'til justice shines its guiding light.

2 A child is born with special needs 4 A child is born and no-one hears as hindrance cruel its growth impedes; the cry for help or silent tears; may we bring kindly love and grace may we speak up and nurture give to make a wholesome healing space. so children lost may laugh and live.

5 A child was born on Christmas Day who showed us love's most costly way; and we with joy this truth proclaim: 'Each precious infant bears God’s name'.

7 A Journey Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune:Cruger

1 Dawn heralds this day's journey; 3 Clouds move across the heavens; light floods the earth with gold; light breaks within the storm; we feast on morning's freshness we bless the rain of winter as peace our world enfolds. as night again is born. Earth offers us her beauty; Dusk calls the world to slumber; bright blue the sky and sea; night draws the Milky Way; we pause in silent wonder, we rest in sacred spaces, at one with all we see. as darkness ends the day.

2 Trees reach into the sunlight; 4 Creation in completeness, bright dewdrops on their leaves; vitality and grace we wait in joy or sorrow gives warmth and hope and meaning as life her pattern weaves. to all the human race. Wind dances in the valleys; Life shares with us her treasures; flight takes the birds to air; our hearts and minds aware; we hold these fleeting moments we give our thanks for living, as signs of sacred care. as joyful life we share.

A Pilgrim People Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Slane (A pickup note B flat is placed before the first note in bar 1 in using this tune)

1 We follow the pathway of pilgrims of old 3 We rise to joy's calling as birds taking flight and honour their courage and vision so bold; and move to the magnet of shadow and light; we seek to tread wisely, their footprints to trace, we find bliss and wonder in faith's ebb and flow, aware of their presence, their passion and grace. with pathways uncharted and depths still to know.

2 We gather with pilgrims to welcome this day 4 We stand on the threshold of vision and dreams and whisper love's message in words that we pray; and ponder life's beauty as love ever streams; we cradle life gently, as hope we impart, we share bread together, so yeast we may be; and live with compassion and joy in our hearts. and dwell in love's nurture as salt in the sea.

5 We honour the pathway of pilgrims of old yet carve out a new course as visions unfold; we seek truth and justice for all and for earth and strive for a just world whose coming we birth.

9 A Prayer for Sacredness Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Ombersley Based on Phillipians 4:8

1 May we love goodness and give praise 3 May spirit, soul and thought combine and offer reverence all our days. with feelings, body, heart and mind. May joy infuse our day and night, May sacredness our lives infuse, as hope fills life with inner light. as love and truth we daily choose.

2 May words of justice fill our ears 4 As we give thanks and offer praise, and faithful trust dispel our fears. God's peace will fill our nights and days. May insight make us truly wise, As we give care and gently bless, as beauty's gifts our hearts surprise. we walk the path of sacredness.

10 A Wedding Gift Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Amazing Grace

In this song, after the introductory first verse, the families and friends are singing to the couple.

1 The gift of grace has called us here 3 The gift of grace will bless your love to bind two hearts as one, with passion's deep delight; to ask for blessing as they steer may grace shine bright like stars above, a new course now begun. with ecstasy and light.

2 The gift of grace has come as prayer 4 The gift of grace will help you face to bless the vows you say; the storms that life may bring; may grace sing songs with joyous air, may grace now shape forgiving space, to celebrate this day. as hearts in chorus sing.

5 The gift of grace will ever flow to bless the years ahead; may grace bring bliss you've yet to know, as life's new path you tread.

11 A Wedding Prayer Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Amazing Grace

1 As friends and family rejoice 3 May joy and passion dance in you and music fills the air, and breathe with love's delight; we sing with joyful heart and voice may faith and hope be strong and true and bring this loving prayer: to light the darkest night.

2 May grace and friendship bless your love 4 May trust and caring ever grow and nurture harmony; and bear the fruit of peace; may dreams be bright as stars above may streams of wisdom gently flow and shine with ecstasy. as love and trust increase.

5 May hearts be one to dream and dare the future you have planned; may love bring gifts of grace to share as you walk hand in hand.

12 A World of Beauty Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Gaelic Air

1 Paint a world of vibrant colours, 3 Fling the stars into the heavens; hues of gold and green and blue; set the universe ablaze; shape the hills in burnt sienna; sing the requiem of daylight; shade the verdant valleys too. hold the night sky in our gaze. Sing the seas with changing beauty; Hear the planet in its turning touch the salty wind-swept spray; sing an ancient symphony; hold the setting sun in splendour in the colour of the music at the dying of the day. touch its sacred history.

2 Walk the silver path of moonlight; 4 Still our minds to sense the wonder enter twilight's mystery; of our earth's tranquility; hear the murmur of the ocean; feel the stillness and the silence touch the tides and restless sea. of its deep divinity. Shape the clouds in grey and silver; Pause in awe and silent wonder; see the sunlight's golden haze; feel the earth's vitality; touch the glory that is fleeting love creation and Creator, as the sunset ends the day. live the daily mystery.

1 By seeking wisdom's way to live 2 By finding beauty's deep delight abundant life is known; awareness comes to be; by all the kindly care we give by gentle and forgiving light each seed of love is sown; new hope for life we see; by stillness in a soulful place by trusting in love's sacred space with earth as holy ground, with faith as daily quest, we share abundant life and grace we share abundant life and grace as in God's love we're found. as in God's love we're blessed.

14 Advent Waiting Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Lauds

1 Watching through the longest night, 3 Sharing in the faith we know, waking in dawn's early light, giving space for love to grow, grace may come - as sacred fire, grace may come - a treasure fair, born of prayer and deep desire. born of stillness and of prayer.

2 Seeking with a steadfast gaze, 4 Waiting in this Advent time, longing in these Advent days, looking for the gift divine, grace may come - as inner sight, grace comes gently - born anew: born of hope and heart's delight. child of peace, love's promise true.

15 All Creation Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Abbot’s Leigh

1 All creation sings an anthem 3 All creation moves with passion waking earth with sacred voice; dancing with the birds in flight; all creation rings with music all creation swirls in colours calling nature to rejoice; full of fire and dazzling light; we who hear dawn's sweetest love song we who live in sun and shadow join the wondrous symphony; add our joyous song of praise; we who cradle earth in nurture we who feel an inner stirring offer thanks for all we see. bring our thanks for gifted days.

2 All creation waits in stillness 4 All creation tells a story ringed by countless stars of night; words of life for heart and mind; all creation stirs in splendour all creation shares a secret: blessed by sun and golden light; wisdom's love for humankind; we who rise to greet the morning we who meet in hope and longing breathe with joy, life's fragrant air; seek a gentle healing place; we who share earth's ancient wisdom we who pause in joy and yearning join the canticle of prayer. bless this earth as sacred space.

1 As we make a space for wonder, 2 As we make a space for friendship, we may slow our frantic pace, we may walk on holy ground, pausing from our busy doing, weaving cords of love and welcome, present to a world of grace filling life with joy profound.

3 As we make a space for others, we may find that Christ has come, once again to sit at table, breaking bread to make us one.

17 Beatitude Song Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Christe Sanctorum

1 Blest are the faithful, 3 Blessed are the seekers, (6*) loving and steadfast, insight revealing; strong in their spirits, blessed are the Christ-like, (4*) welcoming yet outcast, (9*) hunger ever feeling; trusting God's promise: blessed are the gentle, (5*) love's way will prosper; hands of hope and healing; grace and shalom to share. grace and shalom to share.

2 Blessed are the grieving, (2*) 4 Blessed are the peaceful, (7*) hope now departed; God's loving offspring; blessed are the powerless, (1*) blessed are the fearless, (8*) walking paths uncharted; hope and justice bringing; blessed are the humble, (3*) blessed are these pilgrims, kind and open-hearted; songs and praises singing; grace and shalom to share. grace and shalom to share.

* The numbers alongside refer to the order of beatitudes in the Gospel account Matthew 5 : 1 -12

Behold Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: French

1 Behold and look with inner eye 3 Behold and bring a thoughtful mind on all earth's loveliness: to listen to the wise, the forest green, the azure sky, to grasp the truth of climate change the living air so fresh. before our planet dies.

2 Behold with wise and open heart 4 Behold with spirit and with soul the way we work and live, earth's gentle sacredness, and balance all we need to take and choose to live in harmony with all we need to give. and daily mindfulness.

19 Behold a Mystery Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Martham

1 In birth, behold a mystery, 4 In death, behold a mystery, time now to live, time now to be; time now for loss and clarity; for loving care and gift of days, for darkened days and silent fears, we offer thanks; we sing our praise. we offer grief; we bring our tears.

2 In joy, behold a mystery, 5 In love, behold a mystery, time now to glow with ecstasy; time now for hearts' abundancy; for inner warmth and tender gaze, for gentle grace and sharing ways, we offer thanks; we sing our praise. we offer thanks; we sing our praise

3 In pain, behold a mystery, 6 In life, behold a mystery, time now to hurt and gently heal; time now to dare; time now to be; for broken hearts and shadowed years for friends to share God's gift of days, we offer grief; we bring our tears. we offer thanks; we sing our praise.

20 Being Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Felicity

“I felt the sentiment of Being spread o'er all the moves, and all that seemeth still … I saw one life and felt that it was joy.” 'The Prelude' by William Wordsworth

“In God, we live and move and have our being.” Acts, ch.17.

1 As we live and have our being, 4 We will live and move and offer we will dwell in sacredness; all this life our dreams have caught, we will dare to seek for meaning; sharing visions of a future, we will share life's joyfulness. far beyond the reach of thought.

2 As we grow and seek for wisdom, 5 We will ponder life's rich meaning, we will look with inner sight; finding bliss within us still; when all life is seen as beauty, as we hold our hearts in rapture, we will live with deep delight. life with wonderment we fill.

3 As we move and act for justice, 6 We are moved and called to being we will walk compassion's way, by a love that knows no bounds; speak with clarity and courage, we discover in our sharing living out the words we say. life and love and joy profound.

21 Beloved Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Carlisle

1 We know ourselves beloved: 4 We know ourselves beloved: beloved and called to be beloved and called to weep; now present to a sacred call we're called from fear and faithlessness and to divinity. to wake and rise from sleep.

2 We know ourselves beloved: 5 We know ourselves beloved: beloved and called to go beloved and called to die; into a wilderness of doubt, we're called to face mortality a clearer path to know. and drink grief's chalice dry.

3 We know ourselves beloved: 6 We know ourselves beloved: beloved and called to care; beloved and called to rise; now called to passion and to love, now called to live a Christ-like life a deeper life to dare. with grace that God supplies.

1 Grace and peace this time has offered, 2 Joy and hope this time has offered, space for wonder, space for praise, space for healing, space for care, time for beauty, songs and stillness, time for justice, dreams and visions, sacredness to bless our days. mindful of the earth we share.

3 Life and love this time has offered, space for presence, space for prayer, may we go with new-found wisdom, fruits of love and light to bear.

23 Blessing a Child Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Capetown

1 Infant born of human love; 2 Water is a sacred sign; life entrusted to our care; sign of promise and of grace; Love, new born, has come to us; child of hope, we welcome you, love we all may share. to this sacred space.

3 May your life be blessed by love; may you walk in wisdom's way; may you live abundantly, thankful, ev'ry day.

24 Breathe in The Morning Air Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Love Unknown A song inspired by Psalm 23

1 Breathe in the morning air; 3 Walk in the way of love, inhale its fragrance rare; of justice and of peace; be still and trust the sacredness arising there; bring caring to a world at war ‘til conflicts cease; who’s ever near; who knows our fear; reach out and bless with gentleness whose presence calms each silent tear. to heal the hurt of brokenness.

2 Lie down in pastures green; 4 Here in this darkest vale, rest in this sacred space; shadowed by grief and pain, be present to the myst’ry of this holy place; we sense a loving presence that our hearts sustain; hear singing streams; wake hopeful dreams; our fear subsides; deep calm abides; see how our lives are touched by grace. our panic flees, and peace remains.

5 Trust in the love of God; see goodness ever grow; feel hope and joy and sacred love forever flow. Through changing days, in pilgrim ways our thankful hearts will offer praise.

25 Canticle of Creation Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Lasst Uns Erfruen

1 God’s creatures all, unite and sing; 3 Rich harvest of our earthly sphere; cosmos in chorus echoing: flowers, fruit and crops to crown the year: alleluia, alleluia. alleluia, alleluia. Warm golden sun to gild the day; All blessings from the earth and sea; night's silver moon and Milky Way: renewing life and energy: be thankful, sing praises, be thankful, sing praises, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

2 Dark stormy clouds from tidal shore; 4 Each precious day of life we share; rain to refresh the earth once more: friends dear and kin for whom we care: alleluia, alleluia. alleluia, alleluia. Sweet living air with birds in flight; Forgiving love and healing space; bright, dancing fire with warmth and light: wisdom and peace when grief we face: be thankful, sing praises, be thankful, sing praises, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

5 Earth, sky and ocean now rejoice; all living things find grateful voice: alleluia, alleluia. Gifted to know and be aware, we blend our anthems with this prayer: be thankful, sing praises, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

26 Come and Share This Land Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Orientis Partibus

1 Come and share this land we know; 3 Here is room for all to live; come and live and love and grow; here is love and care to give. share the gift of who you are; As we share these early days, bring your music from afar. help us understand your ways.

2 Leaving home and family, 4 Plant a tree and watch it grow; you have crossed the stormy sea. learn new skills and seek to know. Welcome here as friend and kin; Sing and dance and live in peace; may your life anew begin. may your dreams of terror cease.

5 Come and share this land so fair; come and breathe its healing air. As we gather face to face, may we know love’s gift of grace.

27 Come to The Wilderness Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Was Lebet

1 Come to the wilderness; come seek a clarity; 3 Come to the wilderness; come to a sunlit day; stand on a landscape that's shaped by the sea; see white owls fly as the stars fade away; touch painted rocks that tell stories of long ago; drink deep from rare springs and breathe in find space and stillness as desert sands blow. earth's mystery; welcome new wisdom to live and to be.

2 Come to the wilderness; come to a testing time; 4 Come to the wilderness; come to a sacred feel arid silence as moon shadows climb; place; hear inner voices that speak of an easy way; meet dreamtime angels as new paths we trace; ponder life's choices and take time to pray. rise with love's blessing and wholeness anew to share; journey with courage to do and to dare.

1 Come to us, O Spirit, Promised, source of grace. Breathe in us, O Spirit, Counsel, source of love.

2 Live in us, O Spirit, Helper, source of peace. Grow in us O Spirit, Wisdom, source of life.

29 Darkness Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Savannah

“You, darkness of whom I am born, I love you more than the flame that limits the world to the circle it illumines and excludes all the rest. But the dark embraces everything; it lets me imagine a great presence stirring beside me.” Rainer Rilke

1 Sunshine forms a circle bright 4 Sacred darkness comes with grace limiting the reach of light; binding us in love's embrace; shadows cast upon the ground comes as touch of gentle care; show us where light's edge is found. holds the grief we cannot share.

2 With the setting of the sun 5 To such darkness, everyone daylight dies for night has come; all alone must surely come; darkness calls the world to sleep in the dark night of the soul whilst the stars their vigil keep. we may glimpse life's truer goal.

3 Darkness shapes both birth and death 6 God, as darkness, cradles all, calling forth the gift of breath; loving us before we call; dark the womb of sacred care comes as presence, brings release, blessed with life we've yet to bear. source of wisdom, gift of peace.

Inspired by Psalm 30

1 Golden light is dawning; 2 Dark the night of weeping; sunrise greets the morning; tears we shed while sleeping; earth sings her canticle; peace comes with morning; songs of praise at dawn. hearts may sing at dawn.

3 Praise the gift of morning; new with hope and longing; sacred the stillness; life renewed at dawn.

31 Doubts and Faith Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Love Unknown

1 Come to a sacred space with open heart and 4 Finding a bridge of faith that has integrity, mind; we'll work with all who seek to walk with come willing to explore and seek a living faith. honesty. In this new space, we long to gain With openness and hearts of grace, a faith that touches joy and pain. we touch the wisdom of each faith.

2 We come with questions deep; we come with 5 We honour Muslim prayer and treasure Hebrew answers few, thought. yet longing for some light to shine upon our We see the noble pathway that the Buddhist quest. treads. We take the risk of losing faith, A Christian hymn, a Hindu prayer, yet we can walk no other path. speak of a sacredness we share.

3 We gently put aside concepts and creeds of old, 6 What do we hold as true? Compassion for each yet seek some ancient wisdom that our hearts one, may hold. justice and love for ev'ry creature on this earth; From seeds of doubt, new life may flow, the sacredness of human care; if given care and space to grow. this is a path that all may share.

Although the northern hemisphere spring is a stronger metaphor for the Easter story than our autumn, be mindful of the revival of our gardens with the first rainfall after the summer heat, and also the seasonal arrival of our winter flowers and fruits.

1 Autumn sings with leaves of gold, 3 Silver clouds adorn the skies, dancing free in air so cold; shining bright as darkness dies; see the bush and garden bloom; night gives way to golden dawn; life has stirred from earth and tomb: hope has come in hearts that mourn: life is breaking through the clay, hope is moving stones away, rising up on Easter Day! rising up on Easter Day!

2 Bursting forth from silken case, 4 Sing we now with ecstasy, butterflies take flight with grace; freed to love so joyfully; praise their beauty with each breath; Christ alive in all we do; faith is born from change and death: love as gift of life anew: faith is calling us to pray, love will ever with us stay, rising up on Easter Day! rising up on Easter Day!

33 Epiphanies Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: St Elisabeth

1 Long was their journey, 3 Homeward their journey, guided by starlight; pond’ring the wonder, bright were their dreams for a child new-born; stirred by the love in that humble place; searching and yearning, new visions springing; hearts with hope burning, new life beginning; they longed to see a brighter dawn. gifts from the child of peace and grace.

2 Strange was their journey, 4 Now is our journey, burdened by treasure, pilgrims together, kneeling they offered gifts so rare: called by our dreaming, we travel far; gold for life's gladness, searching and yearning, myrrh for its sadness, hearts with hope burning, incense as fragrant breath of prayer. love, joy and justice as our star.

34 Explore, Engage, Embrace Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Ewing

1 Explore the world of nature; 3 Embrace the world of wonder; discover life anew; discover mystery; see each of earth's rich seasons, see life in wild profusion and ever-changing hues. and rich complexity. Explore the world of matter; Embrace the world of beauty; see galaxies newborn; surprises daily spring; hear whale songs from the oceans; hear some of the unspoken; and magpie calls at dawn. live with deep questioning.

2 Engage the world of science; 4 Exploring and embracing, share in her endless quest; we've daily life to share, grasp wisdom's understanding, enriched with sacred passion, her striving for the best. with watchfulness and care. Engage the world of atoms; Engaging and embracing, untangle coded genes; we celebrate and pray; hear arguments and answers beholding and believing, with visioning and dreams. we offer praise this day.

35 Faithful Seasons Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Au Clair de la Lune

1 Flow'ring in the summer, jacaranda blue, 3 Orange trees are fruiting in the winter rain; gold and cream in sunlight, frangipani too. rivers are rejoicing, flowing deep again. Seeded crops and harvest, fruit of earth and Earth is dark and silent, tree roots searching soil, deep, summer's gift of plenty, born of human toil. daffodils are dancing, woken from their sleep.

2 Gum trees in the autumn share their lemon 4 Pink and white the springtime, perfumes on haze; the breeze, crocuses in splendour offer daily praise. green the leaves so tender, clothing all the Autumn leaves are falling, gold and brown trees. and red; Faithful are the seasons, gifts of sacred care; nature's life renewing, earth again is fed. celebrate their beauty, as this earth we share.

36 Forgiveness Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: French Traditional Quelle est cette odeur agreable ?

1 Who knows the way to true forgiveness? 3 Who heeds Christ's call to true forgiveness, Is it a path that few may find? offered to all so patiently? Love bids us name the past as sorrow, Mandela lived out Christ-like loving; breaking the painful chains that bind; Ghandi brought peace and liberty; wisdom may shape a bright tomorrow, enemies met with truth and justice, bringing new hope to heart and mind. kindness, respect, integrity.

2 Who knows the source of true forgiveness? 4 Love fills the sea of true forgiveness Is it God's gift of costly grace? where hope and healing gently flow; Openness builds a bridge of healing, mystery draws us ever deeper meeting our neighbour face to face; into God's ocean depths below; faith and trust light the darkest shadows, thankful hearts rise with peace indwelling, drawing us all to sacred space. life in its fullness yet to know.

37 Friendship Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Scottish Traditional Bonnie George Campbell

1 Friendship gives meaning to life and to faith, 3 Friendship wakes memory of those we embraced, true understanding, compassion and grace. partings and sorrow, deep grief we have faced. Friendship is joyful, a song to be sung; Friendship brings healing, new life and deep peace; music created, a chorus begun. hope that tomorrow our joy will increase.

2 Friendship births laughter, forgiveness and tears, 4 Friendship needs patience, with silence and space, growing in beauty with each passing year. dawning awareness, with nurture and grace. Friendship risks darkness, deep sorrow and pain, Friendship takes courage and infinite care, asking forgiveness, so love lives again. time now to listen and deep truths to share.

5 Friendship holds promise of seeds and of Spring, deepening wonder and love blossoming. Friendship is sacred, a gift of God's grace; may we be faithful as love we embrace.

38 Gift of Grace Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Amazing Grace

1 The gift of grace has blessed our days, 3 The gift of grace has come as care and touched our lives with peace; to bless our lives anew; this grace has journeyed shadowed ways, this grace will every sorrow share, and brings love's sweet release. and shine like morning dew.

2 The gift of grace will hold our pain, 4 The gift of grace will always flow and calm our deepest fears; and weave a healing space; this grace comes now as gentle rain this grace has depths we've yet to know, to share our grief and tears. as life's new path we trace

39 Gifts of the Spirit Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Cresswell

1 Life is a gift; daily reborn; 3 Hope is a gift; daily reborn; life now to cherish, nurture to bloom. hope now to cherish, life to adorn. Mystery and wonder prompt us to bring Hope to awaken, vision made clear; bountiful thanks as we sing: hope conquering weakness and fear. Sacred the life embracing us now; Sacred the hope embracing us now; sacred the life that we share. sacred the hope that we share.

2 Faith is a gift; daily reborn; 4 Love is a gift; daily reborn; faith now to cherish, life to adorn. love now to cherish, life to adorn. Faith asking questions, offering space; Love gently shaping every breath; faith touching wisdom with grace. love ever stronger than death. Sacred the faith embracing us now; Sacred the love embracing us now; sacred the faith that we share. sacred the love that we share.

5 Riches of God; daily reborn: Blessings to cherish, nurture to bloom. Gifts of the Spirit, great and small, Love! Greatest gift of them all. Sacred the blessings embracing us now; sacred the blessings we share.

40 Give Thanks Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Kremser

1 Give thanks for the blessings we share in our 3 Give thanks for the wisdom we find in our living; searching; give thanks for the gift of this welcoming day; give thanks for the friends who will travel our give thanks for the nurture we knew from our way; birthing: give thanks for the music we hear in our for life, we sing a joyful song, and give our dreaming; praise. for life, we sing a joyful song, and give our praise.

2 Give thanks for the heartaches we hold in our 4 Give thanks for the wonder of life in its being; flowering; give thanks for the grief of our sorrowful give thanks for the joys of an indwelling grace; days; give thanks for the beauty and love we are give thanks for the insights we gain in our sharing; growing; for life, we sing a joyful song, and give our for life, we sing a joyful song, and give our praise. praise.

41 God Is Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Beechwood (alt) (Add a pickup note (D) before bar 1)

In loving, God is gift; in giving, God is care; in caring, God is grief; in grieving, God is grace.

42 God is The Genesis Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Franconia

1 God is the soul and breath, 3 God is the shore and sea, the passion and the grace, the depth of peace profound, the genesis of birth and death, the One who is and is to be, the life of earth and space. the space of holy ground.

2 God is the mind and heart, 4 God is the wind and flame, the wonder and delight, the wisdom, power and sign, the energy of nature's art, the Love that calls us each by name the web of love and light. the gift of bread and wine.

5 God is the first and last, one vast related whole, the Love that ever holds us fast, the journey and the goal.

God of Mystery Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Beechwood

1 God of mystery, 3 God of galaxies, whom words cannot contain, of stars yet to be born, and minds cannot explain, of stellar wind and storm, Love is your name. Life is your name.

2 God of sun and moon, 4 God of deep desire, of dawn and darkest night, of tenderness and tears, of shadows and of light, of darkness and of fears, Joy is your name. Hope is your name.

44 God’s Love Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Puer Natus

1 As starlight floods the sky with gold 3 As sages offer gifts so rare and hopeful dreams unfold, and praises fill the air, God's Love is born as joy untold: God's Love is born for all to share: Alleluia, alleluia. Alleluia, alleluia.

2 As angels dance with deep delight 4 As shepherds welcome life anew and nameless fears take flight, and hearts with grace imbue, God's Love is born as peace and light: God's Love is born as promise true: Alleluia, alleluia. Alleluia, alleluia.

5 As wisdom weaves a sacred space and minds this truth embrace: God's Love is born as costly grace. Alleluia, alleluia.

45 Grace and Peace Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Christus Der Ist

1 May grace and peace enfold you 2 May grace and peace uphold you within God's loving care; in times of loss and pain; may grace and peace embrace you may grace and peace restore you within the breath of prayer. to hope and life again.

3 May grace and peace go with you and be a light to guide; may grace and peace now bless you and in your heart abide.

46 Gratitude Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Quam Dilecta

“O Lord, who lends us life,lend us a heart replete with thankfulness.” William Shakespeare

1 Our gratitude we bring 3 Our gratitude we bring for life we have been lent; for courage and for grace; we sing our joyful thanks we sing our joyful thanks for ev'ry day we're sent. for sacredness and space.

2 Our gratitude we bring 4 Our gratitude we bring for cherished memories; from hearts with love replete; we sing our joyful thanks we sing our joyful thanks for gifts and energies. for lives with faith complete.

1 We sing of earth in harmony, 3 We sing of life in harmony, restored, renewed, reborn; of hope that newly springs; we sing of earth as sacred ground, we sing of life as gift of grace inspired by each new dawn. and cherish the joy it brings.

2 We sing of space in harmony, 4 We sing of hearts in harmony, of galaxies afar; of kind and gentle care; we sing of space as mystery we sing of hearts infused by love and welcome each guiding star. and treasure the faith we share.

5 We sing as one in harmony, with justice flowing free; we sing as one, together bound, within love's unity.

48 Here in Community

1 Eat the bread and drink this wine; 3 Here we bring our cup of tears, come and share this sacred sign. sorrows, griefs and silent fears. Love that we celebrate; Here in community, grace for everyone. joy may live again.

2 Here we bring our brokenness, 4 Here we touch divinity, open hands and emptiness. present in diversity. Here in community, Here in community, hope may live again. love may live again.

5 Eucharistic mystery, lives again in you and me. Here in community, grace for everyone.

49 Here in The Stillness Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: St Elisabeth

1 Here in the stillness, 2 Here in the shadows, while the world is sleeping, as the day is dawning, Sirius is low in the eastern sky. creation stirring in deep desire. Here in the starlight, Here in this conflict, we hold our vigil. we long for wholeness. Where is the joy for which we yearn? Where is the peace for which we yearn?

3 Here at the birthing while the child is crowning, mystery revealed in a newborn child. Here in our open arms, we hold the future. Sing and rejoice! Love’s child is born!

50 Here’s A New Day Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Woodlands

1 Here’s a new day, 3 Here in creation, fresh gift from God of grace. gift from God of grace, We sense God’s presence in this sacred space; divine embracing of the human race; let us be mindful of God’s blessing here, woven together, intimate and free, pausing, rejoicing, held in God’s good care. holy the ground connecting you and me.

2 Here in awareness, 4 Here in belonging, gift from God of grace, gift from God of grace, may we awaken in this sacred space, interconnected in this sacred space, moved to compassion, open heart and hand, and in the web of life each one may share, linked to each other, meeting love’s demand. held in God’s love, surrounded by God’s care.

1 Imagine now our world renewed 3 Consider now this galaxy with colours rich and rare; and earth our home in space; imagine too the earth newborn, a fragile planet, in our hands and cradled close with care. sustained by caring grace.

2 Imagine too this earth enriched 4 Imagine now a sacred quest with forests evergreen, to heal earth's brokenness; with sunlit streams and dancing light, a pledge to walk in wisdom's way and perfumed air so clean. and live with hopefulness.

1 Joy is life and litany, 3 Joy is sight and clarity, gently sung in symmetry; soulful gaze and mystery; joy, beyond words we say, joy like a star, bright, calls us all to pray. lights our darkest night.

2 Joy is song and symphony, 4 Joy is warm and nurturing, words of hope and harmony; shaped within our sheltering; joy, like a melody, joy comes with love's care; calls us all to sing. joy is ours to share.

53 Kindness Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Aria Magic Flute (Bei Männern, welche Liebe fühlen)

“ …… little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love” Wordsworth

1 Unnamed, unknown and undisplayed, 3 The unremembered kindly deed the acts of kindness daily made; is gift of grace in time of need; kind deeds to strangers and to friends, the healing power of kindly gift the helping hand that loving lends. will every shadowed spirit lift. True kindness will love's presence bring True kindness shows God's loving care as joy and blessings newly spring. in human touch, good news we share.

2 The secret acts of kindly care 4 We shall not pass this way again, endow each life with treasure rare, so may our kindness touch life's pain; and kindness shared with no delay one kindly deed may friendship seal is love divine seen every day. and will a deeper truth reveal: True kindness brings God's presence near True kindness shows God's grace to be as words of comfort calm each fear. revealed in all humanity.

54 Looking, Expecting, Trusting Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: French

1 We search for sacredness anew, 4 We welcome sacredness with hope and daily travel on; expectant, joyfully; we feel love's call to risk our all we hear love's word of blessing come and cross the Rubicon.* as song and litany.

2 We look for sacredness each day, 5 We trust in sacredness and grace its birth and mystery; and live with ecstasy; we hear the call to wonderment we move to share both peace and love and curiosity. and dwell in harmony.

3 We wait for sacredness to flow 6 We ponder sacredness as gift, in river or in sea; the richness of life's wine; we stand upon a threshold strange we shape our lives as sacrament and seek for clarity. to share the love divine.

*Rubicon: a boundary which, once crossed, betokens irrevocable commitment; a point of no return.

1 Wake! Awake! For love is born! 3 Wake! Awake! For love is born! Joy comes now to hearts outworn. Peace comes now to calm each storm. Love is born with morning light, Love is born as conflicts cease, nurtured by the stars of night. heralding the time of peace. Love is born! Let all rejoice! Love is born! Let all rejoice! Celebrate with heart and voice! Celebrate with heart and voice!

2 Wake! Awake! For love is born! 4 Wake! Awake! For love is born! Hope comes now to lives forlorn. Love comes now in human form. Love is born as grace we share, Love is here, a gift divine, rising on the breath of prayer. living in the bread and wine. Love is born! Let all rejoice! Love is born! Let all rejoice! Celebrate with heart and voice! Celebrate with heart and voice!

56 Love is Making All Things New Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Gaelic Air

1 Who will dream a new tomorrow; 2 Who will weave a web of caring; who will spread their wings and fly; who will share their daily bread; who will cradle joy and sorrow; who will work with faith and daring; who will pause to feel earth sigh? who will tread where Christ has led? We will wake our souls from sleeping; We will touch life's deepest yearning; we will seek a vision true; we will stir the flames anew; ours the hearts where joy is leaping: ours the hearts where hope is burning: love is making all things new. love is making all things new.

3 Who will sing the songs of gladness; who will chant each gentle prayer; who will share the times of sadness; who will offer hands of care? We will birth love's promised dawning; as we trust in grace anew; ours the gift of God's new morning: love is making all things new.

57 Love’s Forgiveness Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Hermitage

1 As we face tomorrow, 4 As we bring acceptance moving from our our painful past, for each dark and painful hour, as we share our sorrow, as we speak with courage, love's forgiveness dawns at last. love's forgiveness comes to flower.

2 As we name our hurting, 5 As we bring our being thoughtless words or foolish deeds, to the Love that life imparts, as we seek for wisdom, as we trust God's spirit, love's forgiveness gently seeds. love's forgiveness fills our hearts.

3 As we light a candle, 6 Difficult and costly, silent prayer of letting go, gift of grace to set us free, as we bring our lostness, love's true path to harmony, love's forgiveness starts to grow. life in God's abundancy!

58 Love’s Joyfulness

1 Love's joyfulness is born anew 3 Love's hopefulness is born anew as moonlight floods the skies; as peace comes like a prayer; God's gift of stars to guide our feet God's gift of life to treasure now to where the infant lies. with wisdom we may share.

2 Love's gentleness is born anew 4 Love's sacredness is born anew as music stills the earth; a baby touched by grace; God's gift of song to heal our hearts God's gift to all who see the Child as new life comes to birth. in ev'ry human face.

59 Love Made Visible Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Hermitage

(Note: The 3 syllables in the word “visible” span bar 2 as crotchet, quaver, dotted crotchet)

1 Joy is love made visible, 4 Work is love made visible, laughter, tears and smiling eyes; passions, dreams and artistry; joy is love as inner glow, work is love as human skill, spreading warmth from wisdom's flow. talents born of heart and will.

2 Time is love made visible, 5 Food is love made visible, days and years of kindly care; meals to share with gathered friends; time is love as space to be, food is love as welcome space, giving life and energy. where a traveller finds a place.

3 Touch is love made visible, 6 May our love be visible, hands to hold the pain we bear; born of words and actions clear; touch is love as sweet caress, may our love be gentle grace, healing balm of gentleness. shining in each shadowed place.

60 Mountains and Valleys Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Heathlands

1 Stand upon a mountain peak; 3 Gaze upon the world below; hear the gravid stillness speak; hear the cries of human woe; watch the golden dawn awake; take the path to valleys deep; think of journeys love may take; share the grief of all who weep; pause to breathe the misty air; pause to offer love and care; see God's glory dwelling there. see God's glory dwelling there.

2 Hear the words of blessing fall; 4 Live with mindfulness and grace; sense a presence, touching all; name each vale as sacred space; feel joy stirring deep within; share the warmth of love divine; see transfigured life begin; see shekinah's beauty shine; pause to breathe a thankful prayer; love the complex world we share; see God's glory dwelling there. know God's glory dwelling there.

(shekinah – presence, blessing and glory of God)

61 Nature’s Welcome Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Herrick’s Carol

1 Hear green hills and mountains sing; 2 See clear streams and rivers flow; trees and fields their praises bring; shores and reefs their beauty show; the world of nature greets the birth; the world of nature greets this day; as moonlight gently bathes the earth. while lively dolphins dance and play. Refrain: Refrain: We join the song; (join the song); 3 Touch the sky and Milky Way; of nature's choir; (nature's choir); space ablaze with night's display; all creation sounds the call: the world of nature greets the dawn; 'Peace on earth; good news for all!' behold the infant, newly born! Refrain:

62 Prayer Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Oxford

1 Fragment of eternity; 2 Shadow of reality; fleeting glimpse of mystery; healing light of clarity; webs to catch our ev'ry thought; star to shine on darkened fears; nets of gold where joys are caught; veil of silk to hold our tears; breath of spaciousness and grace; love that reaches troubled hearts; love indwelling sacred space. hope newborn as grief departs. Voices fervent as we share Voices fervent as we share yearnings of our hearts in prayer. yearnings of our hearts in prayer.

3 River of divinity, flowing for eternity; deep the stream of love's embrace; hushed the stillness of this space; pearls of beauty to be found; treasures held in holy ground. Voices fervent as we share yearnings of our hearts in prayer.

63 Rejoice! Rejoice! Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: English Traditional The Truth from Above

1 Rejoice! Again I say, rejoice; 3 Rejoice! Again I say, rejoice; come, celebrate and sing with joy - come, celebrate and sing with joy - an infant born; the child of hope; an infant born; the child of love; may hope be born in us today! may love be born in us today!

2 Rejoice! Again I say, rejoice; 4 Rejoice! Again I say, rejoice; come, celebrate and sing with joy - the birth of love, hope, joy and peace; an infant born; the child of peace; come, celebrate this baby’s birth; may peace be born in us today! God's grace brings newness here today!

64 Remember Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: St Bernard

1 Remember when our earth was green, 4 Today we have a chance to change and gently fell the rain, our acts of heart and mind, when rivers sang their sweetest songs, a chance to live in harmony, renewing earth again? with earth and humankind.

2 Remember when the forests walked 5 Today we offer open hands on mountain and on plain, and cradle earth with care; and shared with us their living breath, we choose to live sustainably, our planet to sustain? abundant life to share.

3 Remember when we closed our minds 6 To share a plentitude of grace and watched earth slowly die, with those who live on less, when science talked of climate change to walk with wisdom in this world, and we that truth denied? and tread with gentleness.

65 Season of Gifts Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Aria Magic Flute (Bei Männern, welche Liebe fühlen)

This Advent/Christmas song is based on GIFT as an acronym for Grace, Illumination, Faith and Transformation

1 In twilight's calm and gentle space 3 In morning's song, as hearts are stirred, we find a safe and healing place; we move to music faintly heard; in times of grief and silent pain in search for truth, new paths to take, comes gift of grace for hearts again. comes gift of faith our minds to wake. This gift of grace our days will bless, This gift of faith our days will bless and lead our lives to loveliness. and bring to all life's sacredness.

2 In midnight's dark and shadowed light 4 In daylight's warm and welcome air, we seek for wise and inner sight; with grace and light and faith to share, in quest for truth to lives inspire comes here, to challenge and transform, comes gift of light as flame and fire. this holy child,*(soon to be)/(now newly) born. This gift of light our days will bless With hearts renewed, love’s giving grows, and bring to all life's hopefulness. as life with loving overflows.

* as appropriate - the latter for Christmas Day itself

66 See The World Clearly Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Tenderness

In this Advent song, the words “re-connection” and “re-membering” (here abbreviated poetically) are used as images of discovering and rediscovering, through the senses, the Christ already incarnate within each of us.

1 See the world clearly; 3 Taste the love fully; see the Christ present; taste the Christ present; come to awareness, come with new sight. sweet and sour flavours in service of grace. Share in the wonder, Embrace the wonder, re-memb’ring ever, re-memb’ring ever imaging Christ with sheer joy and delight. communal life in this sacred place.

2 Hear the words truly; 4 Touch the grace gently; hear the Christ present; touch the Christ present, sounds of Christ's coming for listening ears. holding the presence within hearts and hands. Share in the wonder, Share re-connection, re-memb’ring ever, re-memb’ring ever music resounding and stilling our fears. life in all fullness that loving demands.

5 Live incarnation; live the Christ present, living each day the divine to impart. Share re-connection, re-memb’ring ever Christ’s life embodied in human heart.

1 We gather here to celebrate, 3 As opal fire and starry sky with gratitude and song, infuse our shores with light, that though we come from far and wide, we share in freedom's costly gifts to this land we belong. with daring and delight. We love this vast and sun-kissed land, Today, with hope and grateful hearts, whose blessings we recall; we make our vows anew; with dreamtime people let us build for here in one community, a vibrant space for all. we are Australians true.

2 With varied gifts, diverse in faith (Refrain - from * after verse 3) and language, culture, creed, The wattle in its green and gold we meet as one to play our part, brings beauty to life's way; to speak in word and deed. let us bring joy, and sing as one Today we dream of unity; to celebrate this day!

with wisdom's guiding hand, (Alternate last line when sung on January 26) we join with those who strive to shape on this Australia Day! a just and generous land.

68 Stars Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Lobt Gott

1 Last night, among the stars we saw, 3 Tonight, as countless stars we view, in shimmering summer sky, within the Milky Way, bleak homes and streets aflame with war, a glimpse of light and hope breaks through; as folk sought refuge on our shore: now to our world comes life anew, ‘a chance for peace!’ their cry. for peace has come to stay.

2 Last night, beneath a starry sky, 4 Tonight, within this sacred space, in clear galactic light, ere stars give way to dawn, we saw the hungry children die, we cradle love with human face, and heard with guilt their plaintive cry: and share the gift of gentle grace: ‘no hope for peace’ that night. the Prince of peace is born.

5 Tonight, beneath a shining star, this Child of peace we greet: we join the sages from afar, and bring the gift of who we are: a gift of love complete.

69 Stillness Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Mannheim

1 When the storm has lost its thunder, 3 When we dwell with inner stillness, when the wind has ceased to blow, life is blessed by love and grace; we see skies in cloudless wonder when our lives know shadowed sadness, touching earth with golden glow. we find healing in this space. To this place of awe and stillness, In the gift of inner stillness, we are called by sacredness. peace and hope our lives will bless.

2 When our minds have ceased their chatter, 4 When the silence comes unbidden, when we break the chains of time, life is touched by love profound; we recall the things that matter, faith is like a treasure hidden present to a joy sublime. deep within love's holy ground. In this space of inner stillness, In the depths of inner stillness, God as light our lives will bless. God as Love our lives will bless.

70 Talents to Share Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Au Clair de la Lune

1 Artist paints a picture, drawing us to see harmony and tension, perfect symmetry. Dancer steps to music, hands like birds that soar, beauty in the movement, held by earth no more.

2 Author tells a story, shaping words with skill, hinting at life's anguish, eager minds to fill. Sculptor chisels marble, images set free, carving out a vision, love's reality.

3 Singer wakes the music, voiced with silver note, taking us to wonder, space for joys to float. Mystic offers wisdom, faith we seek to hold, treasure mined from stillness, greater gift than gold.

4 Poet speaks in riddles, sharing words and themes, phrase and verse revealing human hopes and dreams. Harpist plucks our hearts strings, music on the air, notes of sunlight streaming, calling all to prayer.

5 Lute and cello solo, skills of hands and voice, thankful for these blessings, gladly we rejoice. Sacred are these talents, wondrous gifts of art; wisdom shared and honoured, stirring soul and heart.

1 Our tears are gentle gifts of grace; 3 Our tears of grief are gifts of grace, they fall like morning dew; the pain of letting go; the gift of tears wakes memory our tears of grief will carry us to bless our lives anew. to sacred depths below.

2 Our tears of joy are gifts of grace, 4 Our tears have come from salty seas a sharing of delight; and to God's sea they flow; our tears of joy will give us wings this ocean moves in mystery to soar like birds in flight. its blessings to bestow.

72 The Gift We All May Give

This song has become the property of he Australian Hymn Book Company and the words and music should be sought by contacting them.

The address is:

The Australian Hymn Book office is operating on a part time basis with no fixed office hours.

Email: [email protected]

Mailing address: PO Box 128, Parkville, VIC, Australia 3052

Website: http://togetherinsong.org/

73 The Hope We Call Immanuel Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: English Traditional (Tomorrow shall be my dancing day)

1 When fears take flight and darkness dies 3 When deserts bloom with flowers and grass and people walk 'neath sunlit skies, and rivers dance as rain-clouds pass, when kindness binds each broken heart when rock pools flow and salt lakes shine then love will life anew impart. then hope is born as gift and sign. O sing of hope, gift for all, O sing of hope, gift for all, whate'er befall, the hope we call Immanuel. whate'er befall, the hope we call Immanuel.

2 When ploughs are forged from swords and shields 4 When eagles rise on wings of gold and silence falls on battlefields, and children see their dreams unfold, when justice heals a war-torn land, when mountains sing and trees rejoice then hope for peace is near at hand. then hope is born with joyful voice. O sing of hope, gift for all, O sing of hope, gift for all, whate'er befall, the hope we call Immanuel. whate'er befall, the hope we call Immanuel.

5 When wisdom shapes the world we share and loving weaves a web of care, when wonder sets the sky ablaze, then hope is born to bless our days. O sing of hope, gift for all, whate'er befall, the hope we call Immanuel.

1 The love we share is born of grace; 2 The love we share is touched with pain its beauty shines on every face; as grieving hearts weep once again; the love we feel and daily give, the love we risk and freely bear melts hurt and offers hope to live. heals wounds with oil of grace and care. The love we share is blessed with peace The love we share will grow and flower; as hate and war their conflicts cease; its seeds of joy will gently shower; the love we show in all we do the love we trust and seek to show, stirs hope and springs with life anew. links peace and hope as blessings flow.

3 The love we share will shed its light; its brightness gilds the darkest night; the love we name and vow to hold awakens faith and dreams untold. The love we share will always sing; its music soars with joyous ring; the love we cast and scatter free, endures for all eternity.

1 As we stand upon the threshold, 3 As we step beyond the threshold, of a new and gifted day, by a river or the sea, we are people, stirred to journey, we may hear love's gentle blessing: called by love to walk this way. 'you are loved, and called to be'.

2 As we stand upon the threshold, 4 As we meet beyond the threshold, with our hearts and minds afire, filled with joy and peace sublime, we are people touched by beauty, we may taste the wine of friendship, knowing fear and deep desire. as a sign of kairos* time.

5 As we stand upon a threshold, seeing paths as yet untrod, we may stir to share the wonder of a love we name as God.

* Kairos: the opportune, crucial or special time; the appointed time in the purpose of God; the fleeting moment to be grasped.

76 Tidings of Comfort and Joy Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: English Traditional (God Rest Ye Merry)

1 O come with hope and faith renewed; 2 In midnight blue of heaven, let nothing us dismay. a shining angels' flight for Jesus, child of promise brought news to lowly shepherds was born on Christmas Day, of Jesus' birth that night: to offer us new paths to tread 'come now to Bethlehem to see when we had lost our way: this child of love and light': O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy; O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy; O tidings of comfort and joy. O tidings of comfort and joy

3 Now let us all sing praises as peace indwells this space, and with new faith and hopefulness each other now embrace, as once again at Christmas comes promised gift of grace: O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy; O tidings of comfort and joy.

1 In the solitude of pain 3 In the loneliness of pain times of failure rise again; tears may fall like gentle rain; in the midst of grief and tears even friends may fall asleep we confront our deepest fears. as we endless vigil keep.

2 In the wilderness of pain 4 In the sacrament of pain memories of love remain; human touch brings hope again; in our anguish, we all pray: balm of costly nard we share, 'take, o take, this cup away'. gift of grace and sacred care.

5 In the mystery of pain many questions still remain, yet a presence may be found; even here, is holy ground.

81 Transforming Love Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Apple Tree Carol

As rain and seeds transform the earth As starry skies transform the night and call the flowers and trees to birth, and shed their bright and guiding light, so love transforms each shadowed place so love transforms each troubled mind and brings new hope and gentle grace. with words of hope that all may find. O hear the song that angels tell: O see the light of faith increase: God dwells with us - Immanuel! God dwells with us as gift of peace.

As moonlit tides transform the deep As friends and kin transform our days and soothe our minds with gentle sleep, and truth and justice sing their praise, so love transforms each restless heart so love transforms the world we share as loneliness and fears depart. with joyous faith and kindly care. O see the babe who sleeping lies: O hear the song that angels tell: God dwells with us as counsel wise. God dwells within: Immanuel!

1 Step now beyond the known 2 Dance now into the wonder with hopeful heart and mind, of sacredness and space; trusting a way uncharted, trusting the present moment, a deeper life to find. its sacrament and grace. Move now beyond the clamour Dwell now within the solace of answers held as truth, of music's symphony, to trust the joy of children and trust its vibrant beauty, and share the dreams of youth. a gift of ecstacy.

3 Live now within the nurture of love's community, trusting a gentle wisdom to offer clarity. Breathe now the costly fragrance of justice, flowing free, and trust the Spirit's blessing, a gift of harmony.

83 Vigil For Christmas Eve

1 Here we wait as day departs, 3 Hearts together in this place, pausing now with open hearts, welcoming the gift of grace; joy that we celebrate, hope that we celebrate, born again tonight. born again tonight.

2 Starlight gently touching earth, 4 Now together may we sing, guiding seekers to the birth; grateful praises let us bring; peace that we celebrate, love that we celebrate, born again tonight. born again tonight.

84 We Celebrate This Life Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: St Cecilia

1 We celebrate this life, 4 We celebrate this life, its span of earthly years; its beauty and its pain; its gift to us of love, the gentle moments shared of laughter and of tears. that will not come again.

2 We celebrate this life, 5 We celebrate this life, with gratitude and prayer; its energy and breath; its energy and skills the stillness and the sleep, are blessings we all share. the dawn we know as death.

3 We celebrate this life, 6 We celebrate this life, its essence and its soul; and in this sacred space, the courage, hopes and dreams, we bring our prayers of thanks the pilgrimage and goals. for life as gift of grace.

85 Weave Our Lives Together Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Glenfinlas A reflection on Psalm 139

1 Weave our lives together, 3 Hold us in enchantment; sinew, blood and bone; nurture us in grace; shape us in completeness, search us in our being; secret and yet known. carve for us a place.

2 Knit our souls together, 4 Draw us to your presence, spirit, mind and heart; gather us in care; weave us in the darkness; call us to your beauty; craft our ev'ry part. nourish each one there.

5 Woven, shaped and living; held within love's womb; may we spring and flourish, grow and come to bloom.

86 Wisdom Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: Ottawa

(A reflection on verses from Proverbs, Job, Sirach and the Psalms)

1 When the galaxies were forming, 3 Wisdom comes to bring us insight, planets born from clouds of dust, clarity we're slow to seek. Wisdom moved across the heaven, Wisdom's words are heard in stillness, shaping stars and nebula. when we pause to hear her speak. Wisdom drew the mist away, Wisdom's love will never cease; at the dawning of earth's day. Wisdom draws us into peace.

2 Wisdom stirred the dust and ashes, 4 Wisdom leads us into wholeness, as she breathed us into life; as she calls us each by name. Wisdom forged us out of stardust; Though we choose a lesser pathway, from her love, came human form. wisdom loves us still the same. Wisdom's grace shaped our design, Wisdom speaks! We hear her call; melding human and divine. into God, she draws us all.

87 Within Words: Helen Wiltshire Tune: O Waly Waly

1 Within our lives are seams of gold, 3 Within our souls are myst'ries deep, talents to stir; gifts to unfold. joys given life and hopes that leap, Within our lives, the sacred gives visions newborn and given wings: a call to life we've yet to live. within our souls, the sacred sings.

2 Within our hearts are joys to share, 4 Within each heart and soul and mind deep love to give and gentle care; are dreams for earth and humankind, the gift of grace forgiveness makes: new ways to live with paths untrod: within our hearts, the sacred wakes. a sacred space infused by God.