1 Thou, who wast a child on earth
And dost know the wondrous worth
Of a child's unblemished life,
Not yet bruised by storm or strife,
Keep our children, Lord, from harm
'Neath the shelter of Thine arm.

2 Lead the Church's little band,
Blessed Savior, by Thy hand
Early to the house of God,
In the way Thy feet have trod,
That in childhood and in youth
They may know Thy saving truth.

3 Send Thy guardian angels, Lord;
Let them e'er keep watch and ward,
That our dear ones need not fear
Tho' the tempter may be near;
But, upheld by heav'nly hands,
Safe may pass through earthly lands.

4 Go before them constantly,
Ever saying, Follow Me!
This their comfort day by day:
Thou art with them all the way;
And, however far they roam,
In the evening bring them home.

Amen.