The story behind the Calypso Hymn…
‘During my 2005/2006 term as AAW Christchurch Diocesan President, I was invited to Ashburton to help with Holy Communion on AAW Sunday. (First Sunday in February.)
Suddenly at 2am, I woke and was aware of a vision of the AAW Hymn as a calypso: words, music and dance. In the past I had been blessed with other wonderful happenings in the night. I always believed I would remember them the following day – but I never did.
This time I leapt out of bed and wrote it down even although I didn’t have any manuscript paper. As I can play by ear, I played it on the piano. I then danced around the house singing the AAW Calypso.
Enlisting the help of a talented member was essential. Suzanne Stewart, Heathcote/Mt Pleasant AAW, had the equipment and expertise to set the words and music in a professional form.
CALYPSO music & words Olive Gray
A number of AAW members presented the Calypso at a Christchurch meeting. It was also sung in Dunedin at a NZAAW AGM as well as on other occasions.
However, I have been disappointed that it is not being used more as it was a pure gift from God. I was only the channel.
As the words and music are very uplifting, it is my hope after reading this, that it is used at some of your services.’
Blessings to you all,
Olive Gray, AAW Life Member
Olive Gray was AAW Diocesan President 2004-2007