Hymns by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette

On this day of celebration, at this time when hopes are new,
God, we gather as your people, called to put our trust in you.
You have made the world we live in; you have worked through history.
In your plan we find our purpose, in your love, our unity.

Long ago, you sent our Savior to this world in deep despair.
In your Word made flesh you came, our life to know, our sins to bear.
Christ has died and Christ is risen! At this new year we proclaim:
Yesterday, today, forever — Jesus Christ is still the same!

Through two thousand years of changes, through these passing centuries,
You have called your church to witness to Christ's love that claims and frees.
Each new generation hears you, each must find a fresh new way
To make known the life you offer, to the people in their day.

On this day, we pause and wonder what the future years will bring,
Yet we know you clothe each flower and you make each sparrow sing.
How much more will you protect us with your guiding, caring hand!
By your Spirit, lead us boldly in the future you have planned.