Take Him, Earth, For Cherishing

Howells, Herbert (1892–1983)

Occasion:
Proper of Saints → The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day) (November 2)
Masses for the Dead

Publication Information:
H. W. Gray — GCMR 2869

Text Information:
Reference: Prudentius (348-413) from Hymnus circa Exsequias Defuncti

Lyrics: Take him, earth, for cherishing, To thy tender breast receive him. Body of a man we I thee, Noble even in its ruin. Once was this a spirit’s dwelling By the breath of God created. High the heart that here was beating, Christ the Prince of all their living. Guard him well, the dead I give thee, Not unmindful of His creature Shall He ask it: He who made it Symbol of His mystery. Take him, earth, for cherishing. Comes the hour God hath appointed To fulfill the hope of men, Then must thou, in a very fashion, What I give, return again. Take him, earth, for cherishing. Not though ancient time decaying Wear away these bones to sand, Ashes that a man might measure In the hollow of his hand: Not, though wandering winds and idle Drifting through the empty sky, Scatter dust was nerve and sinew, Is it given to man to die. Once again the shining road Leads to ample Paradise; Open are the woods again, That the serpent lost for men. Take, oh take him, mighty Leader Take again thy servants’ souls Grave their name and pour the fragrant Balm upon the icy stone. Take him, earth, for cherishing, To thy tender breast receive him, Body of a man I bring thee, Noble even in its ruin. By the breath of God created. Christ the Prince of all its living. Take, O him, earth, for cherishing.
Notes: Written in memory of President John Fitzgerald Kennedy
Submitted by: Anthony DiCello    Added: Aug 25, 2022    Last updated: Aug 25, 2022