Hymn-Writing Contest

As part of the Virginia Annual Conference celebration in 2004, an original hymn text was commissioned that reflects the Virginia Conference vision statement. All interested persons were invited to submit text. 

All entries were judged by a panel. The winning entry was selected by April 15. The text submitted by the Rev. Stephen B. Hassmer, pastor of Calvary United Methodist Church, Arlington District, was chosen. During conference, Hassmer presented Bishop Pennel with a framed copy of the hymn text. It is also available to download from this site in Word.

In Every Cross and Steeple

A Hymn Commissioned for the 2004 Virginia Annual Conference
Reflecting the Virginia Conference Vision Statement
Dedicated in Honor of Bishop Joe E. Pennel, Jr.
Under Whose Guidance the Vision Statement Was Created
June 15, 2004    

 

 In every cross and steeple, we see your vision, Lord,

For welcoming all people with your transforming word.

The strangers and the burdened shall all be welcomed here

To celebrate the good news that Jesus Christ is near.  

 

The slow-to-move, and able, shall gather here as one;

We come before your table- are fed by Christ your Son.

Then, nurtured by the Spirit, Christ’s body we become-

So all may know the Savior, and God’s whole will be done.  

 

In each small town or city, your banners be unfurled-

Renew your church, we pray, Lord, to be Christ in the world.

Amid each shift in culture, our call remains the same-

To make of all disciples, and teach them in Christ’s name.  

 

Now keep before your church, Lord, a vision of that day

When all transformed creation shall gather, praise, and pray:

Your table spread before us, the cross, a beacon tall,

‘Til Christ shall come in glory to show your love to all!

 

  Optional 5th verse:  *

Send us now as your people, with your redeeming word,
Where there’s no cross or steeple, where good news must be heard,
Where lives are broken daily, where poor ones suffer loss-
Help us to share the hope, Lord, of life beyond the cross.   

 

Lyrics: The Reverend Stephen B. Hassmer,                                                                         
Tune: Munich Winner of the 2004 Virginia Annual Conference Hymn Contest

 

* The fifth verse was written after the contest. It is also now property of the Virginia Conference and can be used by local churches as they wish.