O joy, because the circling year Hath brought our day of blessing here! The day when first the light divine Upon the church began to shine. Like unto quivering tongues of flame Upon each one the Spirit came: Tongues, that the earth might hear their call, And fire, that love might burn in all. Thus unto all was spread abroad The wonder of the works of God; They knew the prophet's word fulfilled, And owned the work which God had willed. Of old in every hallowed breast Thou camest in thy grace to rest: O grant us now from sin release, And in our time, good Lord, give peace.