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.