I will not leave you alone,
I will not leave you alone.
Though thro’ the desert I lead
Or apart in the mountain ye pray,
For strength in the hour of need,
I never will answer you, “Nay”,
I never will answer you, “Nay”.
The musical education of the Shakers has certainly come a long way, since the days of Brother Abram Whitney’s letteral notation and the simple melodies of our early founders. Today, many of our hymns and anthems are much more elaborate as you will note in a later Shaker Anthem, entitled “Rejoice”. Although, perhaps, rather empty without the addition of a full chorus, you will get some idea of the quality of the composition, as I play it on the organ. The present day Shaker Hymnal contains many beautiful hymns and anthems. Some were arranged and harmonized by members, using various Scripture texts, while others were the musical expression of those simple, sincere soul-breathings from the dedicated hearts who were imbued with the spirit of the first Christian founders. One of these hymns ably voices the universal faith of the Shakers, whose hearts deeply feel for those, their brothers, who suffer and are in need of love and assistance. The following hymn, entitled “Universal Prayer”, is one of many, which are sung in our Church Service, in loving thought of others.
The Spirit is calling, earnestly calling
O Zion, unfold in deep prayer.