Uploaded March 2021 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Learn Sister Cecilia DeVere's "Supplication in a Nation's Calamity," a truly unique American folk song (lyrics below). I teach this song line-by-line in an easy listen and repeat style. I also teach a harmony part.
Watch my companion video that explores the history of this song here: youtu.be/norAhGh11G4
The word “Supplication” means to ask, pray or beg for something earnestly or humbly. In this case, Sister Cecilia’s song title could be interpreted to mean “a prayer in a nation’s crisis.”
THANK YOU to my Patrons, who make this project possible!
patreon.com/sarolynch
BECOME A PATRON with monthly donations!
patreon.com/sarolynch
*WHERE ELSE YOU CAN FIND ME*
Website: sarosings.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/sarosings
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/song_speak_...
*LYRICS*
Dark is the cloud that rests over the nation
Wild is the war cry that pierces the air
God’s heavy judgements spread wide desolation
Strong hearts are bound in the depths of despair.
Lord, may the bands of the captive be broken
Oh may this struggle bring true liberty
Teach man that love is a heaven-born token
And that the truth can alone make us free.
Guide Zion’s children in this trying hour
Keep us dependent on thy love and care
Down in the valley we find thy true power
Lord in thy mercy oh guard us still there.
*CREDITS*
Writer and Producer: Saro Lynch-Thomason
Script Editor: Ben Fink
Editorial Advice: Rochelle Hudson
Learn Sister Cecilia DeVere's "Supplication in a Nation's Calamity," a truly unique American folk song (lyrics below). I teach this song line-by-line in an easy listen and repeat style. I also teach a harmony part.
Watch my companion video that explores the history of this song here: youtu.be/norAhGh11G4
The word “Supplication” means to ask, pray or beg for something earnestly or humbly. In this case, Sister Cecilia’s song title could be interpreted to mean “a prayer in a nation’s crisis.”
THANK YOU to my Patrons, who make this project possible!
patreon.com/sarolynch
BECOME A PATRON with monthly donations!
patreon.com/sarolynch
*WHERE ELSE YOU CAN FIND ME*
Website: sarosings.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/sarosings
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/song_speak_...
*LYRICS*
Dark is the cloud that rests over the nation
Wild is the war cry that pierces the air
God’s heavy judgements spread wide desolation
Strong hearts are bound in the depths of despair.
Lord, may the bands of the captive be broken
Oh may this struggle bring true liberty
Teach man that love is a heaven-born token
And that the truth can alone make us free.
Guide Zion’s children in this trying hour
Keep us dependent on thy love and care
Down in the valley we find thy true power
Lord in thy mercy oh guard us still there.
*CREDITS*
Writer and Producer: Saro Lynch-Thomason
Script Editor: Ben Fink
Editorial Advice: Rochelle Hudson
