“ALL HALLOWS”

Embrace the golden splendor where it breaks

From folds of God-washed garments. The shimmering

Harvest of this field of friends ripens in

The light reflected from the light which falls

Upon the broadening crowd. Breathe in reverence!

And whisper wondering, life-awakening words:

Living words inspired by rising beauty.

Contagious witness, praise, ripples the field

Of souls; praise at their glimpse of One enthroned:

“World-Making-Saving-Word!” The unity

(Redemption’s tide) where love and justice meet

With wounded hands (to bring the ransomed home)

Begins the chorus. Sung from one heart,

It spirals to an all-including round,

Resurging, swelling on, in waves of time;

And to the beat of ages echoing.

So, in the Lord’s eternal feast, the share

Of glory, joy, and praise will always grow.

(By Dennis Evans - As seen during an All Saints Day sermon preached by Dr. Paul Francis, at University of Dubuque Theological Seminary, in 1975; revised.)