The Very Rev. Francis B. Sayre Jr. (1915 — 2008) was Dean of the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. for 27 years.
Grant, great Creator, that we too may love what Thou hast blessed so well: The South-land soil of Carolina.
Praise Thee, Lord, for the blue of upcountry hills, and their grassy apron falling toward the sea; praise Thee for islands and salt marshes and birds which nest in the sand; praise and thanksgiving for the fruitful earth that cherishes a magnola or laurel upon the mountain, or cotton for raiment.
Soft is the wind, soft the speech of men, gentle Thy Grace where the roots of Thy children are hid. May they in Thy goodness grow, reaching up their spirits toward heaven, until they shall have fulfilled Thy purpose for them; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Hat tip: The Anglican Digest
