Great Funeral Music: "I Vow to Thee, My Country"

I was especially happy to hear the strains of "I Vow to Thee My Country" at the conclusion of Senator John McCain's service at the Washington National Cathedral. The original poem was set to music in the 1920s by Gustav Holst and is employed at every (no kidding) British Royal wedding or funeral (it was Lady Diana's favorite). Its lyrics are so patriotic that progressive members of the British clergy find them offensively nationalistic, but it was a great choice for the heroic senator and I confess to gasping with glee and relief when I recognized it, watching the televised service intently as the casket and family walked sadly but victoriously down the aisle.

celebrants, funeral music, griefAmy CunninghamDecember 2, 2015John mccain service