I've made no secret that both my father and my brother were seamen with
the British Merchant Navy for all of their working lives. They both passed
away too early at age 66 - Dad in 1974 and Colin in 2003.
It's because of these two that the hymn
Eternal Father, Strong To Save
has always had a special meaning for me, no less today then when they
were alive. I have a very soft spot in my heart for all seamen (and women),
whether military or merchant or, come to that, social/pleasure boatsmen.
Interesting to note that this hymn has been adopted by both the Royal
Navy and the U.S. Navy, as well as other branches of the armed services of
borh countries (and others).
Because i'm in something of a nostalgic mood at present, Id like to offer this
clip of a very simple version of the hymn, sung at a very solemn and
meaningful ceremony a few years ago.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wiWPojoUyaA
Eternal Father, strong to save
1.Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
2.O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy word,
Who walkedst on the foaming deep,
And calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
3.Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
4.O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren's shield in danger's hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe'er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.
William Whiting (1 November 1825 – 3 May 1878)