Number 26
June 25th, 2009

Immanuel by James Hersch
(written for the 125th Anniversary of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Canova, SD)

Before there was a steeple
There was a sense of grace
On those who gathered here
To build a house of faith
Before the endless prairie
Turned to pasture and corn
A little prayer was answered
A little church was born

The people came to worship
In the pews of Immanuel
And came to love that little church
With the steeple bell
That rang for Sunday morning
Or someone's earthly goodbye
And all was well with Immanuel
As the years went rolling by

And the bell rang
And the people sang
Glory, glory to God

The precious wooden altar
Where many cares were laid
Many hearts were lifted
Many vows were made
Sorrow was no stranger
But hope was always found
And all was well with Immanuel
When the steeple bell would sound

And the bell rang
And the people sang
Glory, glory to God

Ten miles south of here
There's a four lane interstate
That can take you around the world
On the winds of fate
But no matter where you journey
No matter where you dwell
You faith is still your compass
And your home is Immanuel

Where the bell rings
And the people sing
Glory, glory to God