In this Sunday's Gospel reading from John we hear Jesus tell us "Do not let your hearts be troubled...I am the Way, the Truth and the Life."  15th century Welsh-born poet and Anglican priest George Herbert took this Gospel reading and composed the poem "The Call" as part of a set of poems he entitled Five Mystical Songs, the first of which is entitled "Easter." 20th century English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams set these poems to music for baritone solo and choir and they have since become some of the Anglican church's best-loved and inspirational works, being performed together and individually. We heard the first song in the set, "Easter," a couple of weeks ago with Chase Wheeler and the choir and on Sunday we will hear the fourth song in the set entitled "The Call" with Chase as soloist once again. This song has been adapted as a hymn in the Episcopal Church and we do sing it often. On Sunday, you will have the rare opportunity to hear it as it was originally set to music by V. Williams. 

The Call from Five Mystical Songs

Come, my Way, my Truth, my Life: Such a Way, as gives us Breath: Such a Truth, as ends all strife: Such a Life, as killeth death. Come, my Light my Feast, my Strength: Such a Light, as shows a feast: Such a Feast, as mends in length: Such a Strength, as makes his guest. Come, my Joy, my Love, my Heart: Such a Joy, as none can move: Such a Love, as none can part:Such a Heart, as joys in love.