Forward Through the Ages

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.

Wider grows the kingdom,
reign 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.

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.