Dear Editor,

I found this hymn while paging through my hymnal. It was written by William Pierson Merrill. Although it was written in 1911, I found it so appropriate for today:

“Not Alone for Mighty Empire”

Not alone for mighty empire, Stretching far o’er land and sea; Not alone for bounteous harvests, Lift we up our hearts to Thee.

Standing in the living present, Memory and hope between, Lord, we would with deep thanksgiving, Praise Thee most for things unseen.

Not for battleship and fortress, Not for conquests of the sword; But for conquests of the spirit, Give we thanks to Thee, O Lord.

For the priceless gift of freedom, For the home, the church, the school; For the open door to manhood In a land the people rule.

For armies of the faithful, Souls that passed and left no name; For the glory that illumines Patriot lives of deathless fame;

For our prophets and apostles, Loyal to the living Word; For all heroes of the Spirit, Give we thanks to Thee, O Lord

God of justice, save the people From the clash of race and creed From the strife of class and faction; Make our nation free indeed.

Keep her faith in simple manhood Strong as when her life began, Till it find its full fruition In the brotherhood of man.

Amen.

Susan Morrison

Palmerton