The Bells Poem by Steve Taunton

Now is not the time for the pipes and muted drum,
Let the bells ring with joy!
Here is the bridegroom, let the bride come;
The Lord be with you;
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost;
The bells are ringing now!

Let the bells ring gladly!
Loose the white doves;
Let the children come, let the children sing!
He rejoices over these with great gladness,
He calms these with His love,
He rejoices over these with singing;
Glory to you, O Lord Christ;
Now the bells are ringing!

Let the bells ring with joy!
These hearts the fare of the fathers’ gladness!
Confederates with the mothers’ dreams:
Break out the stars!
They, this day who join as one,
Let their light shine;
Send up the moon and dance in the sun;
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost
The bells are ringing now!

Let the bells ring soundly!
Let no one put asunder what God has put together:
Forsaking all others
To be faithful to the other.
Many waters cannot quench their love:
Spread out the oceans! Stretch out the seas!
The peace of the Lord be always with them;
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost;
The bells are ringing now!

(August,2004)