Tread we the path to Bethlehem
Intended for the Season of Advent
Tread we the path to Bethlehem
This penitential-tide,
And pray the Lord within our hearts
To evermore abide.
By Patriarchs, foreshadowed,
By Prophets, hope proclaimed,
By Baptist’s cry on Jordan’s bank,
The Lamb of God acclaimed.
The Word made Flesh among us,
Of tender Virgin born,
The Sun of our Salvation;
A bright and glorious morn.
Yet still we have to pilgrim
Unto that manger-throne,
To make that blesséd journey,
The trying path to own.
Through fasting, prayer and weeping,
Through longing for her Lord,
The Holy Church makes ready
To glorify, to laud.
Then we at last shall see Him,
In great humility,
And set aside the violet hues
For golden jubilee.
Suggested tune:
Thaxted (I vow to thee my country)
Fr John Underhill SSC