Since Jesus freely did appear

To grace a marriage feast;

Lord, we ask thy presence here

To make a wedding guest.

2 Upon the bridal pair look down,

Who now have plighted hands;

Their union with thy favor crown,

And bless the nuptial bands.

3 With gifts of grace their hearts endow,

Of all rich dowries best;

Their substance bless, and peace bestow

To sweeten all the rest.

4 In purest love their souls unite,

That they, with Christian care,

May make domestic burdens light,

By taking mutual share.

Not for the summer hour alone,

When skies resplendent shine,

And youth and pleasure fill the throne,

Our hearts and hands we join.

2 But for those stern and wintry days

Of sorrow, pain, and fear,

When heaven’s wise discipline doth make

Our earthly journey drear.

3 Not for this span of life alone,

Which like a blast doth fly;

And, as the transient flowers of grass,

Just blossom, droop, and die.

Father of the human race,

Sanction with thy heavenly grace

What on earth hath now been done,

That these twain be truly one.

2 One in sickness and in health,

One in poverty and wealth,

And as year rolls after year,

Each to other still more dear.

3 One in purpose, one in heart,

Till the mortal stroke shall part;

One in cheerful piety,

One for ever, Lord, with thee.