THE CHURCH
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS

O father, all creating

by JOHN ELLERTON, 1826-93.

O father, all creating
"And as being heirs together of the grace of life;" I Peter 3:7
O father, all creating,
Whose wisdom, love and power
First bound two lives together
In Eden's primal hour,
To-day to these Thy children
Thine earliest gifts renew-
A home by Thee made happy,
A love by Thee kept true.
O savour, Guest most bounteous
Of old in Galilee
Vouchsafe today Thy presence
With those who call on Thee;
Their store of earthly gladness
Transform to heavenly wine,
And teach them, in the tasting
To know the gift is Thine
O spirit of the Father,
Breathe on them from above,
So mighty in Thy pureness,
So tender in Thy love;
That, guarded by Thy presence,
From sin and strife kept free,
Their lives may own Thy guidance
Their hearts be ruled by Thee.
Except thou built it, father,
The house is built in vain;
Except thou, saviour, bless it,
The joy will turn to pain;
But naught can break the union
Of hearts in Thee made one;
And love Thy spirit hallows
Is endless love begun.