Classic Poem

The sun is setting angrily;
In threatening gusts the wind is blowing;
Holy Mary, Star of the Sea,
Speed our small bark fast and free
O'er the homeward way we are going.

We left the land as the morning bright
Purpled the smooth sea all before us;
We prayed to God, and our hearts were light,
We placed our bark in thy saving sight,
And knew thou wouldst well watch o'er us.

But now the sun sets angrily,
From black, wild clouds the wind is blowing;
Holy Mary, Star of the Sea,
Send our small bark fast and free
O'er the darkling way we are going.

We fished the deep the livelong day;
The waves were rich through God's good pleasure;
We ventured far from our own bright bay,
And lingered late—we fain would stay
Till filled with the shining treasure.

But now the night falls threateningly,
The sea runs high with the fierce wind blowing;
Holy Mary, Star of the Sea,
Our Light, our Guide, our Safety be
O'er the stormy way we are going.

We pass the point where the tempest's strain
Is lightened off by the land's high cover;
Our village lights shine out again—
I know mine own in my window-pane,
And the tall church towering over,

Holy Mary, Star of the Sea,
With grateful love our hearts are glowing;
Behold, we bless thy Son and thee;
Oh, still our light and safety be
O'er the last dread course we are going.