Sts Peter and Paul

What fairer light is this than time itself doth own,
The golden day with beams more radiant brightening?
The princes of God's church this feast-day doth enthrone,
To sinners heavenwardbound their burden lightening.

One taught mankind its creed, one guards the heavenly gate.
Founders of Rome, they bind the world in loyalty;
One by the sword achieved, one by the cross his fate;
With laurelled brows they hold eternal royalty.

Rejoice, O Rome, this day, thy walls they once did sign
WIth princely blood, who now their glory share with thee.
What city's vesture glows with crimson deep as thine?
What beauty else has earth that may compare with thee?


Almighty, ever-living God, you give us the great joy of devoting this day to the honour of the Apostles Peter and Paul. Grant that your Church may follow their teaching to the full, because these are the men who first taught us to worship you in Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.