The Housewife’s Prayer
Blanche Mary Kelly
Lady, who with tender word
Didst keep the house of Christ the Lord,
Who didst set forth the bread and wine
Before the Living Wheat and Vine,
Reverently didst make the bed
Wherein was laid the Holy Head
That such a cruel pillow prest
For our behoof, on Calvary’s crest;
Be beside me while I go
About my labors to and fro.
Speed the wheel and speed the loom,
Guide the needle and the broom,
Make my bread rise sweet and light,
Make my cheese come foamy white,
Yellow may my butter be
As cowslips blowing on the lea.
Homely through my tasks and small,
Be beside me at them all.
Then when I shall stand to face
Jesu in the judgement place,
To me thy gracious help afford,
Who are the Handmaid of the Lord.