Classic Poem

Heart of all holiness,
Gladness and glory,
God of all wisdom,
Wondrous the story:
Thou hast ordained me
Mother to be
Of a child of the ages
Born unto Thee.

Now is my spirit
Strong and uplifted,
To Thy great goodness
Holily gifted;
Be Thy bright splendour
Rayed on my child,
Kindness incarnate,
Lowliness mild.

Perfect, ennoble,
Sanctify woman;
Crown her with beauty,
Strengthen, illumine,
Till each love-offering
Humble as mine
Be joy-sacrificial,
Human-divine.

Now shall my body,
Sacrament-broken,
Give to the future
A final token;
In Love's pavilion
Tented secure,
Bear a true saviour
Gentle and pure.

Loud let the starry
Heavens, blue-vaulted,
Chorus Love's praises
With voice exalted.
Sing, happy people;
Glory be Thine,
God our Salvation,
Father divine!