Lift high the banner of these games

in this Olympic year,

that as we forge relationships,

respect might cast out fear.

Whatever name or creed we bear,

we share a common birth,

our skill and our ability

is drawn from all the earth.

Four billion people watch and cheer,

each country hand in hand,

where race, and faith and nation meet,

we pledge to make a stand:

through training we achieve each goal,

the victory is won.

A greater challenge far, for all:

to treat this world as one.

And so, O God we pray for grace,

in each success or loss,

that we might find humility

to bear each crown or cross;

in circles of communion

to share a common task,

to work for peace, to build fresh hope,

is all we seek or ask.

Possible tune: KINGSFOLD

Andrew Pratt © Stainer & Bell Ltd 28/1/2012

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