Approach not the altar with gloom in thy soul,

Nor let thy feet falter from terror’s control;

God loves not the sadness of fear and mistrust;

O, serve Him with gladness,—the Loving and Just!

His bounty is tender, His being is love;

His smile fills with splendor the blue arch above;

Confiding, believing, O, enter always

His courts with thanksgiving, His portals with praise!

Come not to His temple with pride in thy mien

But lowly and simple, in courage serene;

Bring meekly before Him the faith of a child,

Bow down and adore Him with heart undefiled!