FUNERAL SERVICE

By William Wordsworth

From the Baptismal hour, thro’ weal and woe,

The Church extends her care to thought and deed;

Nor quits the Body when the Soul is freed,

The mortal weight cast off to be laid low.

Blest Rite for him who hears in faith, “I know

That my Redeemer liveth,” — hears each word

That follows — striking on some kindred chord

Deep in the thankful heart;— yet tears will flow.

Man is as grass that springeth up at morn,

Grows green, and is cut down and withereth

Ere nightfall — truth that well may claim a sigh,

Its natural echo; but hope comes reborn

At JESU'S bidding. We rejoice: “O Death

Where is thy Sting?— O Grave where is thy Victory?”