When, doomed to death, the Apostle lay

Verse 1

When, doomed to die, th'Apostle lay At night in Herod's dungeon cell, A light shone round him like the day, And from his limbs the fetters fell.

Verse 2

A messenger from God was there, To break his chain and bid him rise; And lo! the saint, as free as air, Walked forth beneath the open skies.

Verse 3

Chains yet more strong and cruel bind The victim of that deadly thirst Which drowns the soul, and from the mind Blots the bright image stamped at first.

Verse 4

O God of love and mercy, deign To look on those with pitying eye Who struggle with that fatal chain, And send them succor from on high!

Verse 5

Send down, in its resistless might, Thy gracious Spirit, we implore, And lead the captive forth to light, A rescued soul, a slave no more! Amen.