1 Prayer is the soul's sincere desire,
uttered or unexpressed;
the motion of a hidden fire
that trembles in the breast.

2 Prayer is the burden of a sigh,
the falling of a tear,
the upward glancing of an eye
when none but God is near.

3 Prayer is the simplest form of speech
that infant lips can try;
prayer the sublimest strains that reach
the majesty on high.

4 Prayer is the contrite sinner's voice,
returning from his ways,
while angels in their songs rejoice,
and cry: behold he prays!

5 Prayer is the Christian's vital breath,
the Christian's native air,
his watchword at the gates of death:
he enters heaven with prayer.

6 O thou by whom we come to God,
the Life, the Truth, the Way!
The path of prayer thyself hast trod:
Lord! Teach us how to pray.!