Classic Poem

I KNOW a vast Cathedral,
With sculptured walls and high,
And windows dight with every light
That decks the sunset sky;
And towers enwrapped with ivy,
And bells forever glad,
That peal and peal a future weal
To man, oppressed and sad.

I know a vast Cathedral,
Outside, a thing of grace,
But loveliness none can express
In its interior space;
It is the Christ's Religion,
And he that enters there
Finds truth long sealed at last revealed —
Aye, Heaven itself laid bare.

Its central tower is Christmas,
And thence melodious chimes

Each year ring out the death of doubt,
The strifes of ancient times;
Ring in with exultation
The truth men fail to see,
That following right brings truest might,
That love gives liberty.

Best faith of all the ages,
Great temple, ivy-grown,
With windows dight with every light
That decks the Eternal Throne,
Down from thy central tower,
Let Heaven's sweet chimes to-day
Ring loud and fast, till men at last
Keep well God's Christmas Day.