(Granted this is not everybodies cup of tea, however I think there are some who would be interested in this addition to the customs of Star Fleet service. NOTE the use of the non-canon two worded version of Starfleet.)
THE OLD STAR FLEET HYMN
Background – Owing to the strong North American & European roots of the original Earth Star Fleet it is not surprising that when Star Fleet was founded in the early 2130’s that many traditions & customs were passed on to the new space service. Among these traditions was the Navy Hymn of the United States Navy a song which was also sung by many other Earth navies. The original words were slightly changed to reflect the nature of the new service (as well as title) but it is still very much the same in its meaning. While very specific to Earth culture and religious tradition the Hymn has never the less continued to stay popular within Starfleet, even among Non-Terran members, despite some official discouragement. It most noted “disturbance” was it’s playing at the official memorial services held at Starfleet Academy for Admiral James T. Kirk in 2293 and 2371.
When Played – The commanding officer of a starship or base may at their own discretion use the old hymn when ever they feel it is appropriate. However it is not to be used when receiving official non-Starfleet dignitaries save for instances at an official Starfleet memorial or commissioning service.
Current – After a long period of decline the Hymn has found renewed interest arising out of the Dominion War and has become commonly heard again at services. Most non -Christian non-terran members of Star Fleet are usually not offended at the mention of the Christian deity tolerating it.
STAR FLEET HYMN
(Adapted 2133, by Lieutenant Commander Eric Rush, USS Hornet from the original.)
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose hands unbounded restless space,
Who bidd’st the mighty darkness
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril in deep space!
O Christ! Whose voice the stillness heard
And hushed it’s raging at Thy word,
Who walked'st on the tormented surfaces,
And calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril in deep space!
Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril in deep space!
O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger's hour;
From rock and unknown, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe'er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from planet and space.
If anybody has any suggestions about changing words or lines or even additing verses please do so I am very interested in seeing a TNG version which would have arose out of a post 2161 desire to lesson the Earth Christian base of the song so that it would appeal to the ever broadening make up of Star Fleet.
