On Earth, Ere Christ the Lord Appeared

1 On earth, ere Christ the Lord appeared,
Few temples yet to God were reared;
On altars rough, and wrought in stone,
God in bright fiery symbols shone.

2 Today with sacred song and prayer,
We dedicate this house most dear,
With hopes that God this hallowed place
May always fill with richest grace.

3 This place to sinners warning gives;
Here all may start with Christ to live;
Here sorrows change to joys complete;
Here endless bliss the soul shall greet.

4 On Sabbath day each coming year
Here men may come God's word to hear;
God's holy, quick'ning Spirit meet,
And so prepare the Lord to greet.

Source: The A.M.E. Zion Hymnal: official hymnal of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church #376