 | New Year's Anthem |  |
NEW YEAR's ANTHEM.
Sung in the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas. Jan. 1, 1808.
WRITTEN BY MICHAEL FORTUNE
I
TO Thee, Almighty, gracious power,Who sit'st, enthron'd, in radiant heaven,
On this bless'd morn, this hallow'd hour,
The homage of the heart be given
II
Lift up your souls to God on high,The fountain of eternal grace,
Who, with a tender father's eye,
Look'd down on Afric's helpless race
III
The nations heard His stern commandsBritannia kindly sets us free;
Columbia tears the galling bands,
And gives the sweets of Liberty.
IV
Then strike the lyre! your voices raise!Let gratitude inspire your song!
Pursue religion's holy ways,
Shun sinful Pleasure's giddy throng!
V
From Mercy's seat may grace descend.To wake contrition's heartfelt sighs!
O! may our pious strains ascend,
Where ne'er the sainted spirit dies!
VI
Then, we our freedom shall retain,In peace and love, and cheerful toil:
Plenty shall flow from the wide main,
And golden harvests from the soil
VII
Ye nations that to us restoreThe rights which God bestow'd on all,
For you His blessing we implore:
O! listen further to His call!
VIII
From one parental stem ye spring,A kindred blood your bosoms own,
Your kindred tongues God's praises sing.
And beg forgiveness at his throne:
IX
O, then, your mutual wrongs forgive,Unlock your hearts to social love!
So shall ye safe and happy live,
By grace and blessings from above
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