F. W. Faber
FAITH of our fathers! living still
In spite of dungeon, fire and sword:
O how our hearts beat high with joy
Whene’er we hear that glorious word!
Faith of our fathers, holy faith!
We will be true to thee till death!
2
Our fathers, chained in prisons dark,
Were still in heart and conscience free:
How sweet would be their children’s fate,
If they like them could die for thee!
3
Faith of our fathers! we will strive
To win all nations unto thee,
And through the truth that comes from God,
Mankind shall then be truly free.
4
Faith of our fathers! we will love
Both friend and foe in all our strife:
And preach thee too as love knows how,
By kindly words and virtuous life.