Chapter IX

Around us let Thy shield be cast,
Till wrath and danger are o'erpast,
And tribulation's bitter blast.
Have mercy, Lord, upon us.

{kyrie eleêson. Antilabou, sôson, eleêson kai diaphylaxon hêmas}

Deacon. Let us complete our evening supplication to the Lord.
Choir. Lord, have mercy upon us.

I

God of all Grace, Thy mercy send;
Let Thy protecting arm defend;
Save us, and keep us to the end.
Have mercy, Lord.

II

And through the coming hours of night,
Fill us, we pray, with holy light;
Keep us all sinless in Thy sight.
Grant this, O Lord.

III

May some bright messenger abide
For ever by Thy servants' side,
A faithful guardian and guide.
Grant this, O Lord.

IV

From every sin in mercy free,
Let heart and conscience stainless be,
That we may live henceforth for Thee.
Grant this, O Lord.

V

We would not be by care opprest,
But in Thy love and wisdom rest;--
Give what Thou seest to be best.
Grant this, O Lord.