Welcome

We welcome the new morning
At the dawn of each new day
As we set off together
To work, or out to play
In this land of our Fathers
In our care today
A legacy we must never betray

….which we cherish and could never betray

To the children, to the children
How carefree they play
To them this fair country
Will bequeath to, some day
Let it be in their hands
Ever cometh what may
Even though the skies be grey.

So you are welcome to join us
In our promised land
Where we welcome your culture
And offer our hand
While we feel the heartache
That you’ve suffered through
Leave the hardship and sorrows you knew

… and to those that have harmed you
Let God settle the score
Leave trouble far from our shore 

Many died for this freedom
Across this wide land
An awesome sacrifice
You must understand
For those who defend us
And with honour now serve
Protecting the values
That we must preserve

To the fallen, to the fallen
For the fallen we pray
It’s something to remember
On each and every day
Wave those banners, wave those banners
And welcome, I say
Come join us
On our special day

Yes! You are welcome to join us
On our special day
To celebrate freedom
Our banners proudly display
And honour the memory
Of those who paved the way
Accepting we all have
A small part to play

….. embracing that freedom
In our special way
Then with us
You are welcome to stay.

Rodd Sherwin
to a composition by
Anne Trenning