When the Paschal Evening Fell

When the Paschal evening fell Deep on Kedron's hallowed dell, When around the festal board Sate th'Apostles with their Lord, Then His parting word He said, Bless'd the cup and brake the bread "This when'er ye do and see, Evermore remember me."

Years have passed: in every clime, Changing with the changing time, Varying through a thousand forms, Torn by factions, rocked by storms, Still the sacred table spread, Flowing cup and broken bread, With that parting word agree, "Drink and eat; remember Me."

When by treason, doubt, unrest, Sinks the soul, dismayed, opprest; When the shadows of the tomb Close us round with deepening gloom, Then bethink us at the board Of the sorrowing, suffering Lord, Who, when tried and grieved as we, Dying, said, "Remember Me."

When in this thanksgiving feast We would give to God our best, From the treasures of His might Seeking life and love and light; Then, O Friend of human kind, Make us true and firm of mind, Pure of heart, in spirit free; Thus may we remember Thee.