Tune: Tempus Adeste Floridum
[Now is the time for flowering]
(\'Good King Wenceslas looked out\')
St Stephen\'s Day - Dec. 26th
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Lord, my times are in your hands
You who rule o\'er all lands
Seasons joys we share with friends
And your love has no ends
As Saint Stephen, bold witness
Give us courage, us bless
To proclaim your gospel true
You who make all things new
On through all life\'s journeyings
Safe underneath your wings
Yet not trouble-free, there be
Tests and trials too, see
Show us what we can hear know
Your plans unto us show
Give us your strength, on we go
Follow you each, \'tis so
Your promise ne\'er to us leave
We trust it and believe
Help us turn to you where we
Downcast, heavy may be
What may us in life afflict
Give us grace to persist
Short or long, in joy or pain
Sensing your presence again
Though Stephen\'s life may seem lost
He for you paid a cost
Suffered martyr\'s death, but he
Confident in you be
Looking up to heaven he saw
Jesus, and open door
For his murderers [he] did pray
Lord, forgive them, he did say
Now the time for flowers bright
Radiant to our sight
Shine the martyrs, who did give
Message that folk may live
Worthy ones now take your rest
Your reward shall be blest
You who unto death faithful
Inspiration to us all