Author: Mary Nelson Keithahn Hymnal: The Song Lingers On #13 (2003) Meter: 8.7.8.7 D Lyrics: Joyful God of youth and children,God of all who hold them dear,Source of faith and understanding,Perfect Love that casts out fear,we have gathered in your presence,with glad hearts and songs of praise,for a grateful celebrationof your wise and wondrous ways. In your wisdom, God, you set usas your people in this place,bid us welcome friend and strangerto the garden of your grace.In this fertile field, with wonder,we have watched our children growin the faith that first was scatteredby the saints of long ago.At the font the seed was plantedfor the faith that blooms today.It was watered by the Spirit,fed according to Love’s Way.In the home this faith was nurturedlike a seedling, with great care;in the church by songs and storiesfaithful teachers had to share.God, the faith that's come to floweris now ready to bear fruit.Gift our children with your Spirit,make them strong and resolute.In this rite of confirmation,bless the solemn vows they make,that each one may follow Jesus,living always for his sake.Alternate 4th stanza for times other than Confirmation:Now as faith begins to flowerand is ready to bear fruit,gift our children with your Spirit,make them strong and resolute.Listen to their affirmations,hear the heartfelt prayers they make,as they seek to follow Jesus,living always for his sake. Topics: Confirmation Church as Learning Community Tune Title: CONFIRMATION 2002
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