A Hymn for High School Graduates

On this Sunday we recognize the high school graduates from our church. Each year I look to find appropriate music in our books, but nothing quite speaks to the occassion. So this year I decided to write my own hymn for High School graduates.

For those who know hymn tunes-- the hymn is set to Beach Spring. Its meter is 8.7.8.7 D


Years Ago You Came Before Us

Beach Spring-- 8.7.8.7 D


Years ago you came before us
new and blessed as water poured.
Prayers were offered, words were spoken
Holding you as one adored.

What we promised on that morning
was to love and care for you.
So we pray that we have offered
gentle guidance as you grew.


In your teen years there were trials
as your struggled to become
the great blessing God had made you
in your school, your church, your home.

There were tears and consternation,
there was joy and happiness.
But throughout your maturation
there was God's great graciousness.


Now you stand here in our presence
Yet again, a child of love.
Where once a drop of water
brought the Spirit like a dove.

That same Spirit now goes with you
as you grow beyond these walls.
Take our love, our prayers and blessings
as you serve the God of all.




Text: Copyright 2010 by James R. Hawley