One by one we cross the river, One by one we're passing o'er ; One by one the crowns are given, On the bright and happy shore ; Youth and childhood oft are passing O'er the dark and rolling tide ; And the blessed Holy Spirit Is the dying Christian's Guide ; And the loving, gentle Spirit Bears them o'er the rolling tide.
2. One by one we come to Jesus, As we heed His gentle voice ; One by one His vineyard enter, There to labour and rejoice : One by one sweet flowers we gather In the glorious work of love, Garlands for the blessed Saviour Gather for the realms above ; And the loving, gentle Spirit Bears them to our home of love.
3. One by one the heavy-laden Sink beneath the noontide sun ; And the aged pilgrim welcomes Evening shadows as they come. One by one, with sins forgiven, May we stand upon the shore, Waiting till the blessed Spirit Takes our hand and guides us o'er, Till the loving, gentle Spirit Leads us to the shining shore !