Classic Poem

Hail , Ancient Easter-tide that drew
The nations to thy shrine,
Thou who wert born when man first knew
The thrall of Spring divine;

Thou hast the fragrance of all flowers
That fill hope's garden wide,
And clusters that enrich her bowers,
O blessed Easter-tide.

The mirrors of earth's banquet hall
Reflect thy glittering rays,
Thou art the fairest pearl in all
Her diadem of days.

The pattern of the time is cold,
The weavers weave in gloom,
Unseen, thou windest threads of gold
Into the busy loom.

The dark-robed angel as he flies
The shores of life beside,
Hearing thy god-like message cries
“Victorious Easter-tide!”

O Easter, lift thy beacon higher
Above us as we grope,
Thy lantern lighted at the fire
Of the world's larger hope;

In answering love, to all who love
The Church's hallowed ways,
Come with thy message from above
For our despondent days.