Sequences, Hymns, and Other Ecclesiastical Verses ::

Neale, J. M. (1818-1866)

All Souls.

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They whose course on earth is o'er,
Think they of their brethren more?
They before the Throne who bow,
Feel they for their brethren now?

Yea, the dead in Christ have still
Part in all our joy and ill;
Keeping all our steps in view,
Guiding them, it may be, too.

We, by enemies distrest,—
They in Paradise at rest;
We the captives,—they the freed,—
We and they are one indeed:

One, in all we seek or shun;
One, because our Lord is One;
One in heart, and one in love;
We below and they above.

Those whom many a land divides,
Many mountains, many tides,
Have they with each other part?
Have they fellowship in heart?

Each to each may be unknown,
Wide apart their lots be thrown;
Differing tongues their lips may speak,
One be strong, and one be weak:

Yet in Sacrament and prayer
Each with other hath a share;
Hath a share in tear and sigh,
Watch, and Fast, and Litany.

With each other join they here
In affliction, doubt and fear;
That hereafter they may be
Joined, O Lord, in bliss with Thee!

So with them our hearts we raise,
Share their work and join their praise;
Rendering worship, thanks, and love,
To the Trinity above!

Amen.

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