92 Father, be Thy blessing shed

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 through 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!" By Thee to Thy people sent With Thy word and sacrament, May he so proclaim the word That who hear him, hear Thee, Lord. 3 In Thy vineyard called to toil, Wisely may he search 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, Teach him zeal and care to blend, Give him patience to the end. 4 Grant him in his charge to find Listening ear and fervent mind, Helpful counsels, deepening peace, Earnest life, and glad increase; May they, by each other led, Grow to one in Christ, their head, And at last, together be Ripe for heaven and meet for Thee.