This is one of my favorite choral arrangements. So full of peace and joy!
I offer it here because the beautiful expressions of love and concern from the chorus of caring people in this thread constitute a sort of angel band, too. (We're not all singing the same tune, but that just makes the harmonies more resonant.)
Shawn Kirschner's arrangement of "Angel Band"
Melody by William Bradbury (1816-1868), words by Jefferson Hascall (1807-1887)
The latest sun is sinking fast,
.....my race is almost run.
My strongest trials now are past,
.....my triumph is begun.
O come, angel band.
Come and around me stand.
O bear me away on your snow-white wings
.....to my immortal home.
I know I'm near the holy ranks
.....of friends and kindred dear;
I've brushed the dew on on Jordan's banks.
.....The crossing must be near.
Chorus
I've almost reached my heavenly home –
.....My spirit loudly sings.
The Holy Ones, behold, they come –
.....I hear the noise of wings.
Chorus
Thanks for your work and for your friendship, Tim. Both have meant so much to this community of poets, and to me personally.
Love,
Julie