Prelude - Part One

Ring out the bells and let them say
Laudate Dominum for this glad day.
We made our vows to love forever
Through all that life might bring together.
This we have done through sickness and health.
Our sons have been our joy and wealth
Our God has led us through the years
Strong in support, allaying fears.
Now our love shines still as bright,
Running the good race and fighting the good fight.
Praise the Lord for all his care
And for our lies, still given to share.

There sprung from day to night
A lightling star which, shining bright,
Drew from some shepherds gasps of fear
For something unknown called them near
A stable, poor but warm with love –
A babe lit by that star above.
What grace was this that made them kneel
In wonder at the power to feel
This moment fixed for all of time
No matter where or what the clime?
Now is the hour for joy to reign
For hope can conquer all our pain.
New life to come and others spared
Are part of fifty years we shared.
We’re blessed because we have each other,
Kith and kin, sister and brother.
And therefore let the bells bright mirth
Proclaim to all our saviour’s birth.

Oh my dear Jesus
Long have I loved thee,
Born of a Lady
Accepting her destiny,
Giving us wisdom,
Loving and guiding,
Strong as the rock
On which our church was founded,
Gentle as the breeze
That God is known in.
Who would not want
To emulate this Lady
Whose glad fiat
Brought forth our saviour?

For more information on these poems, contact edmund@balnaves.org