Many centuries have fled

Verse 1

Many centuries have fled Since our Saviour broke the bread, And this sacred feast ordained, Ever by his church retained: Those his body who discern, Thus shall meet till his return.

Verse 2

Through the church's long eclipse, When, from priest or pastor's lips, Truth divine was never heard-- 'Mid the famine of the word, Still these symbols witness gave To his love who died to save.

Verse 3

All who bear the Saviour's name, Here their common faith proclaim; Though diverse in tongue and rite, Here, one body we unite; Breaking thus one mystic bread, Members of one common bread.

Verse 4

Come, the blessed emblems share, Which the Saviour's death declare; Come, on truth immortal feed; For his flesh is meat indeed: Saviour! witness with the sign, That our ransomed souls are thine.