1 The glory of these forty days
we celebrate with songs of praise;
for Christ, by whom all things were made,
himself has fasted and has prayed.

2 Alone and fasting Moses saw
the loving God who gave the law;
and to Elijah, fasting, came
the steeds and chariots of flame.

3 So Daniel trained his mystic sight,
delivered from the lions’ might;
and John, the bridegroom’s friend, became
the herald of Messiah’s name.

4 Then grant us, Lord, like them to be
full oft in fast and prayer with thee;
our spirits strengthen with thy grace,
and give us joy to see thy face.

5 O Father, Son, and Spirit blest,
to thee be every prayer addressed,
who art in threefold name adored,
from age to age, the only Lord.