1 Father, be Thy blessing shed
On Thy chosen servant's head;
Savior, needed grace impart
To sustain and keep his heart;
Holy Spirit, with Thy fire
Touch his lips, his soul inspire,
That Thy truth thro' him be told
Fearlessly to young and old.

2 Seal this day the vows that hold
Flock and shepherd in one fold.
May he Jesus' mandates keep:
Feed My lambs and Feed My sheep.
May he, to Thy people sent,
Bring Thy Word and Sacrament;
And when he proclaims Thy Word,
May the people hear Thee, Lord.

3 In Thy vineyard called to toil,
Wisely may he till the soil;
Sinners may he love and win,
While he hates and brands the sin.
Give him boldness for the right,
Give him meekness in the fight;
May he zeal with prudence blend,
Give him patience to the end.

4 Grant him, in his charge, to find
List'ning ear and eager mind,
Helpful counsels, love and peace,
Earnest life and glad increase;
May his people, wisely led,
Grow with him in Christ their Head;
And at last together be
Ripe for heav'n to dwell with Thee!

Amen.