Classic Poem

Xxvi The Marriage ceremony

The Vested Priest before the Altar stands;
Approach, come gladly, ye prepared, in sight
Of God and chosen friends, your troth to plight
With the symbolic ring, and willing hands
Solemnly joined. Now sanctify the bands
O Father!—to the Espoused Thy blessing give,
That mutually assisted they may live
Obedient, as here taught, to Thy commands.
So prays the Church, to consecrate a Vow
‘The which would endless matrimony make;’
Union that shadows forth and doth partake
A mystery potent human love to endow
With heavenly, each more prized for the other's sake;
Weep not, meek Bride! uplift thy timid brow.