Hymns by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette

Christ Taught Us of a Farmer
AURELIA (7.6.7.6 D) ("The Church's One Foundation")

Christ taught us of a farmer who went out sowing seeds.
A few had trouble growing among the rocks and weeds.
But others grew till harvest in soil that was so good.
O God, you sow the gospel: The seed is your own word.

You sowed your word of love here so many years ago.*
Your message found a welcome; your word began to grow.
By grace, this church was built here by saints who followed you.
The seed took root and flourished: we hear and follow, too.

We thank you for each member who lives in loving ways,
For those who seek to serve you without expecting praise.
For hearts and songs uplifted, for work and sacrifice.
The seed you planted grows here: we grow in Jesus Christ.

In times of joy we praise you, in struggling times we search,
And always we are learning to be your faithful church.
Your Spirit gives us vision, and hearts and lives made new.
Your harvest is for sharing: sent out, we work for you.

*Original wording was "You sowed your word of love here one hundred years ago."

Biblical References: Mark 4:1-23; Matthew 13:1-13; Luke 8:4-15
Tune: Samuel Sebastian Wesley, 1864 ("The Church's One Foundation")
Text: Copyright © 2000 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved.
Copied from Songs of Grace: New Hymns for God and Neighbor by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette (Upper Room Books, 2009).
Email: bcgillette@comcast.net     New Hymns: www.carolynshymns.com/

Hymn Use Permission: Songs of Grace: New Hymns for God and Neighbor by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette (Upper Room Books, 2009) includes a permission note for those who own this book to use this hymn (along with the 76 other new hymns in the book) in their local church's worship services. People who do not own Songs of Grace are asked to contact Carolyn (bcgillette@comcast.net) for permission to use the hymn and to get a copy of the hymn formatted for worship bulletin use.

St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Warren, Illinois commissioned this hymn for their church's celebration of their 100th anniversary.

Books on Mark and Year B

Books on Luke and Year C