10th anniversary of the ordination of the first women priests in the Church of England in February 1994
Good Christian men and women, let us raise a joyful shout:
The C of E is treating us as equals. Just about.
Sister, fetch the fatted calf, and we’ll prepare a feast:
You can’t become a bishop but you can become a priest.
The mountains skip like rams, the little hills like sheep. And why?
Our problem-solving miracle: a bishop who can fly.
Sing, dance, clap your hands, make merry and be glad:
Some men behave atrociously, but most are not too bad.
Bring out the tambourines, and let the trumpet sound:
These years have not been easy but, praise God, you’re still around,
Brave, forgiving pioneers. May this be your reward:
To grow in strength and beauty in the service of the Lord.
But should there be a woman Primate while I’m still alive,
Oh, then we’ll hear the valleys sing, and see the mountains jive.