On Laying the Corner-stone of a Church.
1 This stone to thee in faith we lay,--
We build the temple, Lord, to thee,
Thine eye be open night and day,
To guard this house from error free.
2 Here, when thy people seek thy face,
And dying sinners pray to live,
Hear thou, in heaven thy dwelling-place,
And when thou hearest, Lord, forgive.
3 Here, when thy messengers proclaim
The blesséd gospel of thy Son,
Still by the power of his great name
Be mighty signs and wonders done.
4 When children's voices raise the song,
Hosanna! to their Heavenly King,
Let heaven with earth the strain prolong;
Hosanna! let the angels sing.
5 Thy glory never hence depart;
Yet choose not, Lord, this house alone;
Thy kingdom come to every heart;
In every bosom fix thy throne.