Hymn text: “The Call To Christian Service”

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This text was written to mark the departure of the music minister at Dickey Memorial Presbyterian Church. This text conveys that God’s grace is found in transition while reminding the congregation that despite the loss of a music minister, singing will remain a vital part of their faith and religious practice. Theologically, there are thematic connections between the incarnation, grace, and the pilgrimage of every person in Christ.

The tune was set to MERLE’S TUNE (Hal H. Hopson, 1983, ©️ Hope Publishing Company). However, a number of popular tunes can be used, including AURELIA, ELLACOMBE, and LANCASHIRE.

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The Call To Christian Service

Meter: 7.6.7.6.D

1. The call to Christian service
   Christ blessed us each thereof,
   to pilgrim with each other,
   to tarry in God's love.
   How sweet and gladsome is this
   no matter what it be:
   to bear with one another
   God's great community!

2. O Lord your Spirit beckons,
   unmooring every blight
   from mourning into dancing
   and mornings from the night.
   You dwell in dust and doubters
   and harrow every hell;
   Through seasons and through sorrows
   your grace shall we retell.

3. In servants past and coming
   the Lord will e'er proclaim,
   "Prepare the way of justice,
   of love no one can tame."
   With silence or with cymbals,
   in sign, sound, sacred song,
   bring captive all our senses
   to love, undying, strong.

4. Now sealed in fleshly mortal
   is God's ephem'ralty;
   In coming and in going,
   incarnate grace there be.
   While on this pilgrim journey
   we pray o'er wearied feet:
   The peace of Christ be with thee,
   until again we meet.