A Prayer

Commissioned in honor of David Emory Shi's inauguration as Furman University's tenth president. The text, by John Drinkwater, seeks collective direction and resolve: "Grant us the will ... the strength ... the purpose to strike the [hammer] blow." Suitable for ceremonies and solemn occasions of all kinds - graduations, installations, confirmations, dedications - and to convene or close large civic gatherings. Premiered by the Furman Singers.