James Montgomery

On laying the Foundation Stone of a Place for Worship.

This stone to Thee in faith we lay,

We build the temple, Lord, to Thee;

Thine eye be open night and day,

To guard this house and sanctuary.

Here, when Thy people seek Thy face,

And dying sinners pray to live,

Hear, Thou in heaven Thy dwelling-place,

And when Thou hearest, O forgive!

Here, when Thy messengers proclaim

The blessed Gospel of Thy Son,

Still, by the power of His great Name,

Be mighty signs and wonders done.

Hosanna! to their heavenly king,

When children's voices raise that song;

Hosanna! let their angels sing,

And heaven with earth the strain prolong.

But will indeed Jehovah deign

Here to abide, no transient guest?

Here will the world's Redeemer reign,

And here the Holy Spirit rest?

That glory never hence depart!

Yet choose not, Lord, this house alone;

Thy kingdom come to every heart,

In every bosom fix Thy throne.