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The Sailor’s Hymn

[ RoudBS B97181 ; William Whiting]

Danny Spooner sang The Sailor’s Hymn in 2014 on his CD Sailor’s Consolation. He noted:

Written by William Whiting (1825-78), this hymn is always sung at the blessing of the fishing fleets in Britain. It is always a very moving ceremony.

Lyrics

Danny Spooner sings The Sailor’s Hymn

Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose hand does bind the restless wave,
Who bidst the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
    Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
    For those in peril on the sea!

Oh savior whose almighty word
The winds and waves submissive heard,
Who walkedst on the foaming deep,
And calm amidst its rage did sleep;
    Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
    For those in peril on the sea!

Oh Sacred Spirit who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
Who badst the angry tumult cease,
And gavest light and life and peace;
    Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
    For those in peril on the sea!

Oh Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger’s hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe’er they go;
    And ever led there rise to thee
    Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.