Classic Poem

We welcome, with the opening year,
Our Pastor, to this ancient fold;
With words of love, and hope to cheer,
The gracious Gospel, never old.

In cultured ground the seed is sown,
As in a good and fruitful soil;
Long has this field the blessing known
Of faithful laborers' care and toil.

As come the swift returning years,
May nobler aims our spirits raise;
Faith triumph over doubts and fears,
Move grateful hearts, inspire our praise.

Our Father, may thy gracious word
Quicken in all the life divine;
'Till we from error, sin, restored,
Through Christ, thy Son, are wholly thine.