English poem
WHAT IS RELIGION?
by Robert Winkworth Norwood (1874–1932)
What is Religion?—Word of many creeds Blared forth in streets by solemn Pharisee, And piped in doleful tones on scrannel reeds, Untouched by love or tender sympathy That moves the soldier where the Master bleeds?
What is Religion?—Lofty minster-spires And rich mosaics on the chancel wall; Deep organ-tones, and silver-throated choirs Whose golden Glorias night and morning fall, With sanctus-bell and flares of altar-fires?
What is Religion? Note of bird on bough; The sunlight falling o'er the waving grass; A child's clear gaze and unashamed brow; The little deeds that, living, come and pass And are forgot: Religion is, I trow.
What is Religion? Why, who anywhere Stoops down to touch the dusty wayside-flower, And then as tenderly the face of care; Who thus in love lives on from hour to hour Has caught the secret, and has mastered prayer.