Again, as evening's shadow falls

Again, as evening's shadow falls,

We gather in these hallowed walls;

And vesper hymn and vesper prayer

Rise mingling on the holy air.

May struggling hearts that seek release

Here find the rest of God's own peace;

And, strengthened here by hymn and prayer,

Lay down the burden and the care.

O God, our Light, to Thee we bow;

Within all shadows standest Thou;

Give deeper calm than night can bring;

Give sweeter songs than lips can sing.

Life's tumult we must meet again;

We cannot at the shrine remain;

But in the spirit's secret cell

May hymn and prayer for ever dwell.

Amen.