WHEN SUDDEN TERROR TEARS APART

When Sudden Terror

Tears Apart

Common Meter (suggested tunes: Bangor, Detroit)

      When sudden terror tears apart
      the world we thought was ours,
           we find how fragile strength can be,
           how limited our powers.

      As tower and fortress fall, we watch
      with disbelieving stare
           and numbly hear the anguished cries
           that pierce the ash-filled air.

      Yet most of all we are aware
      of emptiness and void:
           of lives cut short, of structures razed,
           of confidence destroyed.

      From this abyss of doubt and fear
      we grope for words to pray,
           and hear our stammering tongues embrace
           a timeless Kyrie.

      Have mercy, Lord, give strength and peace,
      and make our courage great;
           restrain our urge to seek revenge,
           to turn our hurt to hate.

      Help us to know your steadfast love,
      your presence near as breath;
           rekindle in our hearts the hope
           of life that conquers death.

Words: Carl P. Daw, Jr. (b. 1944)

World Trade Centre