Lord, bless and keep this little child

This hymn is suitable for dedication or baptism of a child. For dedication use please see the note at the foot of the hymn.

1 Lord, bless and keep this little child,
your blessing be her joy,
your keeping, her most certain strength
that nothing can destroy.

1A Lord, bless and keep this little child,
your blessing be his joy,
your keeping, his most certain strength
that nothing can destroy.

2 So look upon this little child,
and make your face to shine,
that she may see, through hopes and fears,
your countenance divine.

2A So look upon this little child,
and make your face to shine,
that he may see, through hopes and fears,
your countenance divine.

3 Thus may this precious little child
grow in that heavenly grace
which little children long ago
found in your holy face.

4 Your peace be with this little child
not as the world would give;
for yours is peace that will not fail
as long as we may live.

5 Now we baptise this little child
in deepest joy and praise;
prepare our hearts to love her well
and guide her in your ways.

5A Now we baptise this little child
in deepest joy and praise;
prepare our hearts to love him well
and guide him in your ways.

Paul Wigmore (born 1925)
© Paul Wigmore/Jubilate Hymns
CM
alternative tune ST BOTOLPH (Gordon Slater)

N.B. Verse 5 may begin
We dedicate this little child

for more than one child see version  "Lord, bless and keep these little ones"