That Human Life Might Richer Be
Tune: Sussex Carol (the same tune as for As Man And Woman We Were Made)
That human life might richer be
That children may be named and known,
That love finds its own sanctuary,
That those in love stay not alone.
Refrain: Praise, praise the Maker, Spirit, Son,
Blessing this marriage now begun.
As two we love are wed this day
And we stand witness to their vow,
We call on God, the Trinity,
To sanctify their pledges now.
Refrain
Parents and families they leave,
Their own new family to make;
And, sharing what their pasts have taught,
They shape it for the future's sake.
Refrain
This is as God meant it to be,
That man and woman should be one
And live in love and love through life,
As Christ on earth has taught and done.
Refrain
Then, bless the bridegroom, bless the bride,
The dreams they dream, the hopes they share;
And thank the Lord whose love inspires
They joy their lips and ours declare.
Refrain
Words: John L Bell (b.1949) and Graham Maule (b.1958)
© 1989, WGRG, Iona Community, 4th floor, Savoy House, 140 Sauchiehall Street,
Glasgow G2 3DH
From the songbook “Love from below”, Wild Goose Publications 1989.
This song is covered by CCL, and the words may be reproduced free of charge in an order of service, provided that the above information is written out in full.
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