Martyr's Ministry

Tune: Tempus Adest Floridum = 'The time for flowers has come'

('Good King Wenceslas')

Acts 7 v.54-60

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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