Eddi's Service (Poem by Rudyard Kipling)

Eddi's Service

(A.D. 687)

By Rudyard Kipling

Eddi, priest of St. Wilfrid

    In the chapel at Manhood End,

Ordered a midnight service

    For such as cared to attend.

But the Saxons were keeping Christmas,

    And the night was stormy as well.

Nobody came to service

    Though Eddi rang the bell.

'Wicked weather for walking,'

    Said Eddi of Manhood End.

'But I must go on with the service

    For such as care to attend.'

The altar-candles were lighted, — 

    An old marsh donkey came,

Bold as a guest invited,

    And stared at the guttering flame.

The storm beat on at the windows,

    The water splashed on the floor,

And a wet, yoke-weary bullock

    Pushed in through the open door.

'How do I know what is greatest,

    How do I know what is least?

That is My Father's business,'

    Said Eddi, Wilfrid's priest.

'But — three are gathered together — 

    Listen to me and attend.

I bring good news, my brethren!'

    Said Eddi of Manhood End.

And he told the Ox of a Manger

    And a Stall in Bethlehem,

And he spoke to the Ass of a Rider,

    That rode to Jerusalem.

They steamed and dripped in the chancel,

    They listened and never stirred,

While, just as though they were Bishops,

    Eddi preached them The Word.

Till the gale blew off on the marshes

    And the windows showed the day,

And the Ox and the Ass together

    Wheeled and clattered away.

And when the Saxons mocked him,

    Said Eddi of Manhood End,

'I dare not shut His chapel

    On such as care to attend.'

Poem Analysis:

Rudyard Kipling's poem, "Eddi's Service," offers a poignant exploration of faith, humility, and the essence of religious devotion. Through the story of Eddi, a priest in the chapel at Manhood End, Kipling delves into the challenges of spreading the Christian message in the face of adversity and indifference.

1. Eddi's Dedicated Service: Eddi, the priest of St. Wilfrid, is portrayed as a dedicated and unwavering servant of God. Despite the stormy weather and the Saxons' celebration of Christmas, Eddi prepares for a midnight service, eager to offer spiritual guidance to those who may choose to attend. His determination reflects the perseverance and commitment of individuals who faithfully uphold their religious duties.
2. The Loneliness of Devotion: As Eddi rings the chapel bell, it becomes evident that no one is coming to the service. The indifference of the Saxons and the inclement weather highlight the loneliness that can accompany religious devotion. Eddi's steadfastness in the face of empty pews symbolizes the isolation often experienced by those who maintain their faith against societal indifference or opposition.
3. Unexpected Congregants: In the midst of Eddi's solitary service, unexpected congregants appear: a marsh donkey and a yoke-weary bullock. Their entrance into the chapel is an unusual occurrence, but Eddi welcomes them with open arms. This moment is a powerful reminder that faith transcends human boundaries and that all of God's creatures can be part of His divine plan.
4. Eddi's Sermon to the Animals: Rather than becoming discouraged by the lack of human attendees, Eddi proceeds with the service and delivers a sermon to the Ox and the Ass. He shares the story of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, emphasizing the humble circumstances of the Manger and the journey to Jerusalem. Eddi's sermon underscores the universality of Christ's message and the potential for all beings to receive and understand the Word of God.
5. A Lesson in Humility: The Ox and the Ass, typically considered ordinary and humble creatures, listen attentively to Eddi's sermon. Their presence in the chapel serves as a metaphor for the humility required to truly receive the teachings of Christ. This suggests that faith is not confined to the grand or ostentatious but is accessible to all who approach it with a humble heart.
6. Eddi's Unwavering Commitment: Despite the mockery of the Saxons and the unconventional congregants, Eddi remains steadfast in his commitment to spreading the Christian message. He recognizes that his role as a priest is not to judge or exclude but to provide spiritual guidance to those who seek it. Eddi's humility and unwavering faith in the face of adversity serve as a powerful example of religious devotion.

"Eddi's Service" by Rudyard Kipling is a profound exploration of faith, humility, and the universality of religious teachings. Through Eddi's dedication and his sermon to the Ox and the Ass, the poem reminds us that faith transcends societal norms and embraces all beings, regardless of their station or appearance. Ultimately, it underscores the enduring importance of unwavering commitment to one's beliefs and the capacity for spiritual growth and understanding, even in the most unexpected circumstances.