The United Methodist Hymnal

555

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.

Refrain:
	Forward through the ages, 
	in unbroken line, 
	move the faithful spirits 
	at the call divine.

2.	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. [Refrain]

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. [Refrain]

WORDS: Frederick Lucian Hosmer, 1908
MUSIC: Arthur S. Sullivan, 1871
Theme: Christian Year: All Saints Day; Church: Community in Christ; Heritage; Kingdom Of God; New Heaven and a New Earth: Communion of the Saints; New Heaven and a New Earth: Communion of the Saints; The Nature of the Church: United in Christ; Zeal