The Voice that Breathed O'er Eden

The voice that breathed o'er Eden, That earliest wedding day, The primal marriage blessing, It hath not passed away.

Still in the pure espousal Of Christian man and maid The Holy Three are with us, The threefold grace is said.

For dower of blessed children, For love and faith's sweet sake, For high mysterious union Which nought on earth may break.

Be present, heavenly Father, To give away this bride, As Eve Thou gav'st to Adam Out of his own pierced side.

Be present, gracious Saviour, To join their loving hands, As Thou didst bind two natures In Thine eternal bands.

Be present, Holy Spirit To bless them as they kneel As Thou for Christ the Bridegroom The heavenly spouse dost seal.

O spread Thy pure wings o'er them! Let no ill power find place, When onward throught life's journey The hallowed path they trace.

To cast their crowns before Thee, In perfect sacrifice, Till to the home of gladness With Christ's own bride they rise.