Father, we turn to Thee
’Mid shadows drear and dark;
Thy breath alone is free
To fan the vital spark,
Until its light illumes
The vast arcade of years;
And some fair lily blooms
Where men saw only tears.
We cannot walk alone,
However bright the way.
A seed of kindness sown
Shall gracious largess pay.
Our sight is poor and weak,
Apart from Sight-Divine;
Direct us, for we seek
No other will than Thine.
Attentive is Thy ear;
Encourage when we call;
The clouds shall disappear,
We conquer as did Paul.
Eternal rest is won,
Where nothing ill betides;
His race is nobly run,
Who in the Lord confides.
We know we cannot do
The simplest duty well;
Our failing strength renew,
Sweet bliss from pain compel.
Be with us as we meet
To study Thy desire;
Come and Thy work complete,
Our feeble hearts inspire.
Inspire our feeble hearts,
To carry out Thy will.
The fear of man departs.
When we, Thy laws, fulfill.
Help us, dear Lord, intent,
To glorify Thy name;
The Son Himself was sent,
To emphasize Thy claim.
