Bless, O Lord, the opening year To each soul assembled here; Clothe Thy word with power divine, Make us willing to be Thine.
2. Shepherd of Thy blood-bought sheep, Teach the stony hearts to weep ; Let the blind have eyes to see, See themselves, and look to Thee.
3. Where Thou hast Thy work begun, Give new strength the race to run ; Scatter darkness, doubts, and fears; W r ipe away the mourner's tears.
4. Bless us all, both old and young ; Call forth praise from every tongue ; Let this whole assembly prove All Thy power and all Thy love.