729. C. M. Mrs. Sawyer.
The Same.
1We gather in the name of God,
And, bowing down the head,
We stretch our waiting hands abroad,
And humbly ask for aid:
For aid, when o'er the spirit's day,
Thick clouds of darkness rest,
That we may chase the gloom away,
And light the darkened breast.
2For strength to lead the poor, the weak
Who tread the vale of years,--
For pity's hand to dry the cheek
Where sorrow sits in tears;
For hope, the beautiful and bright,
That whispers, "Ne'er despond!"
For faith, that through the darkest night
Still sees a star beyond.
3Bold heralds of the cross, O God,
Undaunted send us forth;
Salvation be our rallying word,--
Our field, the boundless earth;
Love on our lips, and in our soul,
Our labors never done;
O Sovereign Helper! till the goal
By all at last be won.