"Abide with us!" We would prevail,
And plead that thou be ever near
To banish doubts when they assail,
And give deliverance from fear.

"Abide with us" in words of love,
For thou dost say, "Come unto me."
Oh, guide us to thy home above
To dwell in joy and peace with thee!

O BETHLEHEM!

"For he is our peace."

O Bethlehem, where Christ was born
And angels watched him where he lay,
When cradled on that holy morn
That ushered in earth's promised day!

O Bethlehem, it was thy star
Which guided o'er the deserts wild
Those who had journeyed from afar
To gaze upon the sinless child!

O Bethlehem, 'twas thine to see
God's choir announce the Saviour's birth,
And hear those waves of melody
Chant peace and good will to the earth!

O Bethlehem, 'twas thine to weep
With Rachel o'er the crimson woe
When cruel hands did vainly seek
To quench heaven's radiance below!

O Bethlehem, we hear thy call
To joy and bliss, and would not cease
To praise him who has died for all
Who will accept his blood-bought peace!