On opening a place for social prayer by John Newton

O Lord, our languid souls inspire,

For here, we trust, thou art!

Send down a coal of heav’nly fire,

To warm each waiting heart.

Dear Shepherd of Thy people, hear;

Thy presence now display;

As Thou hast given a place for prayer,

So give us hearts to pray.

Show us some token of Thy love,

Our fainting hope to raise;

And pour Thy blessings from above,

That we may render praise.

Within these walls let holy peace

And love and concord dwell;

Here give the troubled conscience ease,

The wounded spirit heal.

The feeling heart, the melting eye,

The humble mind bestow;

And shine upon us from on high,

To make our graces grow!

May we in faith receive Thy Word,

In faith present our prayers;

And, in the presence of our Lord,

Unbosom all our cares.

And may the Gospel’s joyful sound

Enforced by mighty grace,

Awaken many sinners round,

To come and fill the place.