NeuroDivine

This hymn was written as an act of thanksgiving—and hope.

It rises from the Irish landscape and story, from the plains of Meath and Kildare, and from the long memory of saints who heard God’s call before there was language to explain it neatly. It is especially shaped by the witness of Brigid, whose calling overflowed every boundary that tried to contain it, and whose faith still unsettles and blesses the Church today.

The hymn is also written in a particular moment. In recent years, the Church of Ireland—and the wider Anglican Communion—has been living into renewed conversations about calling, leadership, and the gifts of women. These conversations are not abstract. They are embodied in people who shepherd faithfully, who lead with courage and attentiveness, and who dare to trust that the Spirit continues to speak in our own time.

This hymn seeks to hold together gratitude and invitation. Gratitude for those who have gone before; gratitude for those who serve now. And invitation—to notice gifts long left unseen, to make space where doors were once closed, and to allow the Church’s story to be renewed rather than merely preserved.

It is offered not as a statement or argument, but as prayer. Hymns form us quietly. They teach us what to love, what to hope for, and how to imagine the Church as God dreams it to be: wide, attentive, courageous, and alive.

May it be sung—or read—in that spirit.

God who calls your daughters forward,
shaping gifts long left unseen,
You awaken strength and wisdom,
planting hope where fear had been.
On the plains of Meath and Kildare,
where the saints once walked your way,
You renew your Church’s story,
breathing life in us today.

2.  
As you stirred in holy Brigid—
by the oak and sacred fire—
When her cloak spread wide with blessing,
sign of grace that lifts us higher;
When by Mel’s surprised anointing
she was set apart to lead,
Still your Spirit breaks our bound’ries,
meeting every present need.

3.
For the shepherds you have given—
women faithful, brave, and true—
those who lead with quiet courage,
holding fast to all you do;
For the ones who break new pathways,
opening doors once closed before,
We give thanks for your outpouring,
Spirit moving evermore.

4.
Bless our bishop, Pat, whose witness
shines with welcome, peace, and care;
First to stand in Ireland’s story,
bearing Christ’s light everywhere.
Bless Archbishop Sarah’s calling,
guiding many hearts to see
How your love reshapes your people
into wider unity.

5.
God of justice, God of mercy,
keep us walking in your way;
Make us partners in your mission,
seeking truth in all we say.
May the Church reflect your kingdom—
every voice and gift restored—
Till the world, renewed in wonder,
praises Christ, our risen Lord.

Alternate verse 4
Bless all those entrusted with leadership,
called to listen, learn, and lead;
May they honour every calling,
every gift your people need.
Break the patterns that constrain us,
widen still the Church’s door,
Till your people walk together,
seeking justice evermore.

Text copyright 2026 Michael McFarland Campbell.