The Dismissal Hymn

The Dismissal hymn sends the people forth into the world with a sense of mission and Christian purpose. Just as an Entrance hymn symbolizes coming into the presence of God, so a Dismissal hymn symbolizes going forth into the world to serve God. Therefore it is most appropriate to sing a sending forth hymn that touches on service, mission, or the Christian life. During the hymn, leaders of worship recess to the back of the sanctuary. In the liturgical tradition, the order of recessing is the same as the order of the procession. the cross bearer (if a cross is used) the banner carriers (if banners are used) the Scripture readers the choir the ministers The ministers of the Dismissal gather at the back of the sanctuary, where they lead the singing of the final hymn. During a festal season the choir may offer a special number at the end of the service as a way of accenting the meaning of the season's worship. Examples of the Dismissal Hymn and Songs Hymns "A Charge to Keep I…