God, We've Known Such Grief and Anger

God, we've known such grief and anger
As we've heard your people cry.
We have asked you, "How much longer?"
We have sadly wondered, "Why?"
In this world of so much suffering,
May we hear your word anew:
"I will never leave you orphaned;
I will not abandon you."

By your grace comes resurrection;
By your love, you cast out fear.
You give strength and sure direction
As we seek to serve you here.
You give comfort to the grieving,
And you bless the ones who mourn.
May we trust in you, believing
Out of chaos, hope is born.

Hope is ours for, God, you love us!
You have claimed us by your grace.
And through Jesus, you have called us
To bring hope to every place.
In each rescue worker's caring,
In each faithful volunteer,
In each Christian's love and sharing,
God, we glimpse your kingdom here.

Disaster response hymn by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette
Tune: Babilone 8.7.8.7 D ("There's a Wideness in God's Mercy")

This hymn is used by permission from Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. Permission is granted for this hymn's free use by churches that support Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.

Carolyn Winfrey Gillette and Bruce Gillette are pastors at Limestone Presbyterian Church, 3201 Limestone Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19808-2198. Carolyn would appreciate a copy of the worship bulletin from congregations that use the hymn.