Tune: Tempus Adest Floridum = \'The time for flowers has come\'
(\'Good King Wenceslas\')
Acts 7 v.54-60
********
Jewish Council could not bear
More Stephen\'s speech to hear
Furious, were cut to heart
Gritted teeth not depart
They full of rage, but Stephen
Full of the Spirit then
Looked up steadfast to heaven
Saw the glory of God then
And saw Jesus standing by
At right hand of God nigh
Said, Behold, heavens I see
Open, glorious sight be
And the Son of man standing
Underneath angel\'s wings
By God\'s right hand side, He Lord
Ever is the living Word
But the people with loud voice
Cried out, closed ears their choice
Refused to listen, ran to
Him caught up in His view
They cast him out of city
Stoned him murderously
Witnesses laid down coats there
Gave them unto young Saul\'s* care (*later St Paul)
They stoned Stephen, he did call
On God, scene of appal
But said, Lord Jesus receive
My spirit, I believe
Prayed at his end, Lord, forgive
That enemies may live
Saying this with final breath
Left this world by martyr\'s death