So, this morning's service went quite well, and people graciously engaged with the stuff I offered.

I had assumed, wrongly of course, that one of the hymns I'd chosen, being of Scottish origin, would be known by my folk.  It is a beautiful hymn from Iona that addresses one of life's great taboos: death.  It combines firm Christian hope with honest human fear, and although there is one line I do not understand (about angels treading on dreams) well worth sharing...

1  From the falter of breath,
    through the silence of death,
    to the wonder that's breaking beyond;
    God has woven a way,
    unapparent by day,
    for all those of whom heaven is fond.

2  From frustration and pain,
    through hope hard to sustain,
    to the wholeness here promised, there known;
    Christ has gone where we fear
    and has vowed to be near
    on the journey we make on our own.

3  From the dimming of light,
    through the darkness of night,
    to the glory of goodness above;
    God the Spirit is sent
    to ensure heaven's intent
    is embraced and completed in love.

4  From today till we die,
    through all questioning why,
    to the place from which time and tide flow;
    angels tread on our dreams
    and magnificent themes
    of heaven's promise are echoed below.

John L Bell (born 1949) and Graham Maule (born 1958) © 1988, 1996 WGRG, Iona Community