Calypso

Calypso is the name of an orchid. It is also a style of Afro-Caribbean music which originated in Trinidad; communication through song (like what these orchids look to be demonstrating). This morning we closed our World Communion worship with a “communion calypso,” as described by Fred Kaan, author of “Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ.” His text is sung to the tune LINSTEAD, a Jamaican folk melody. Syncopated rhythm creates a forward drive to the music as this morning we sang and “danced” with maracas, African shaker and claves. I can’t even read the text without speaking the words in rhythm! What a wonderful song to send us out in celebration of Christian unity and as a reminder to show love for God and neighbor in the world.

Let us talents and tongues employ, reaching out with a shout of joy: bread is broken; the wine is poured; Christ is spoken and seen and heard. Jesus lives again; earth can breathe again; pass the Word around: loaves abound!

Christ is able to make us one; at the table he sets the tone, teaching people to live to bless, love in word and in deed express. Jesus lives again; earth can breathe again; pass the Word around: loaves abound!

Jesus calls us in, sends us out bearing fruit in a world of doubt, gives us love to tell, bread to share: God (Immanuel) everywhere! Jesus lives again; earth can breathe again; pass the Word around: loaves abound!