1 God of the prophets, bless the prophets' heirs!
Elijah's mantle o'er Elisha cast:
each age for your own solemn task prepares;
make each one stronger, nobler than the last.
2 Anoint us prophets! Teach us your intent:
to human need, our quickened hearts awake;
fill us with power, our lips make eloquent
for righteousness that shall all evil break.
3 Anoint us priests! Help us to intercede
with all your royal priesthood born of grace;
through us your church presents in word and deed
a living sacrifice with thanks and praise.
4 Anoint us kings! Help us do justice, Lord!
Anoint us with the Spirit of your Son:
ours not a monarch's crown or tyrant's sword;
ours by the love of Christ a kingdom won.
5 Make us disciples, heralds of your cross;
forth may we go to tell all realms your grace:
by you inspired, may we count all but loss,
and stand at last with joy before your face.
