Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these.
Matthew 19:14
Words: Heinrich von Laufenburg, 1429 (Ach lieber Herre Jesu Christ). Translated from German to English by Catherine Winkworth, 1869, alt.
Music: St. Catherine (Walton) arranged by James G. Walton in Crown of Jesus Music, by Henri F. Hemy (London, 1864) (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tune:
If you know where to get a good photo of Hemy or Walton (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Substitute her for him if appropriate.
O Jesus Christ, our Lord most dear,
As Thou wast once an infant here
So give this child of Thine, we pray,
Thy grace and blessing day by day.
Refrain
O holy Jesus, Lord divine,
We pray Thee guard this child of Thine.
As in Thy heav’nly kingdom, Lord,
Thy messengers obey Thy word,
Send forth the succor of Thy might
To shield this child both day and night.
Refrain
And all his life, let angels keep
Him safe from harm, awake, asleep;
May he not bear the cross in vain,
But with Thy saints a crown attain.
Refrain