Hymn: “A travelling man from far-off Ethiopia…” (based on Acts 8:26-40)

A trav’lling man from far-off Ethiopia
offered a ride to Philip on the road.
They rode and talked of ancient Hebrew scriptures
and of the hope  which God’s great love bestowed.
Christ calls the church to build a new community,
including people of each land and race;
all nations, genders, classes, personalities,
all sorts, conditions: Christ extends his grace.

He was a eunuch, broken in his body,

and scorned by many for his injuries.
So shall the church extend its hand in welcome
to all who live with disabilities.
Christ calls the church to build a new community,
including people of each land and race;
all nations, genders, classes, personalities,
all sorts, conditions: Christ extends his grace.

He was a eunuch, could not father children.

Descendants would not share his elder years.
Now may the church include folk of all lifestyles
and share their joys and pains, their hopes and fears.
Christ calls the church to build a new community,
including people of each land and race;
all nations, genders, classes, personalities,
all sorts, conditions: Christ extends his grace.

He was a eunuch, senior court official,

custodian of his nation’s treasury.
The church is also called by Christ to dialogue
with those who work in public policy.
Christ calls the church to build a new community,
including people of each land and race;
all nations, genders, classes, personalities,
all sorts, conditions: Christ extends his grace.

The Ethiopian traveller continued on;

he went rejoicing on his homeward road.
As well, the church is still a people on the way
and still rejoices in the grace of God.
Christ calls the church to build a new community,
including people of each land and race;
all nations, genders, classes, personalities,
all sorts, conditions: Christ extends his grace.

Copyright Robert J. Faser, 2000; tune:  Londonderry Air