1 

   I love Thy kingdom, Lord,

   The house of Thine abode,

The Church our blest Redeemer bought

   With His own precious blood.

 2 

   I love the Church, O God!

   Her walls before Thee stand,

Dear as the apple of Thine eye

   And graven on Thy hand.

 3 

   For her my tears shall fall,

   For her my prayers ascend;

To her my cares and toils be given

   Till toils and cares shall end.

 4 

   Beyond my highest joy

   I prize her heavenly ways,

Her sweet communion, solemn vows,

   Her hymns of love and praise.

 5 

   Sure as Thy truth shall last,

   To Zion shall be given

The brightest glories earth can yield,

   And brighter bliss of heaven.