Farewell, 2008 and Welcome 2009

Farewell, 2008 with all of its memories and challenges!
Welcome 2009 with its renewed hopes and its own challenges especially in this turmoil economic time!

Another year is dawning: Dear Father, let it be,
In working or in waiting, Another year with Thee;
Another year of progress, Another year of praise,
Another year of proving Thy presence all the days.

Another year of mercies, Of faithfulness and grace,
Another year of gladness In the shining of Thy face;
Another year of leaning Upon Thy loving breast;
Another year of trusting, Of quiet, happy rest.

Another year of service, Of witness for Thy love;
Another year of training For holier work above.
Another year is dawning: Dear Father, let it be,
On earth or else in Heaven, Another year for Thee. Amen.

Text: Frances Ridley Havergal