As the Disciples, When Thy Son Had Left Them

Verse 1

As the disciples, when thy Son had left them, met in a love-feast, joyfully conversing, all the stored memory of the Lord's last supper fondly rehearsing;

Verse 2

So may we here, who gather now in friendship, seek for the spirit of those earlier churches, welcoming him who stands and for an entrance, patiently searches.

Verse 3

As, when their converse closed and supper ended, taking the bread and wine they made thanksgiving, breaking and blessing, thus to have communion with Christ the living;

Verse 4

So may we here, a company of faithful, make this our love-feast and commemoration, that in his Spirit we may have more worthy participation.

Verse 5

And as they prayed and sang to thee rejoicing, ere in the night-fall they embraced and parted, in their hearts singing as they journeyed homeward, brave and true-hearted;

Verse 6

So may we here, like grain that once was scattered over a hill-side, now one bread united, led by the Spirit, do thy work rejoicing, lamps filled and lighted.