Singing the Living Tradition ‎#114

114. Forward Through the Ages

1 Forward through the ages,
in unbroken line,
move the faithful spirits
at the call divine:
gifts in differing measure,
hearts of one accord,
manifold the service,
one the sure reward.
Forward through the ages,
in unbroken line,
move the faithful spirits
at the call divine.

2 Wider grows the vision,
realm of love and light;
for it we must labor,
till our faith is sight.
Prophets have proclaimed it,
martyrs testified,
poets sung its glory,
heroes for it died.
Forward through the ages,
in unbroken line,
move the faithful spirits
at the call divine.

3 Not alone we conquer,
not alone we fall;
in each loss or triumph
lose or triumph all.
Bound by God’s far purpose
in one living whole,
move we on together
to the shining goal.
Forward through the ages,
in unbroken line,
move the faithful spirits
at the call divine.

Text Information

• First Line: Forward through the ages
• Title: Forward Through the Ages
• Author: Frederick Lucian Hosmer, 1840-1929
• Meter: 6.5.6.5. Triple
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1993
• Topic: Words and Deeds of Prophetic Women and Men: Commitment and Action; The Living Tradition; Ministry; Ordination and Installation; These Things Shall Be

Tune Information

• Name: ST. GERTRUDE
• Composer: Arthur Seymour Sullivan, 1842-1900
• Meter: 6.5.6.5. Triple
• Key: E♭ Major