01. School Hymn sung in 1953 by Chilton Saint James choir

The School Hymn sung in 1953 by the choir with Miss Benbow on piano. Music composed circa 1928 by Miss E M Benbow for Chilton Saint James. Words by Miss Nesta V Mason who would become the second principal of Chilton Saint James. Lyrics O Holy Father, grant by all we do that we may own That no one lives or works or builds unto herself alone, As those who came before us breathed the words we learn to say, So will more take up tomorrow the work we do today. The task remains, while we who come fulfil our day and pass, As shadow falls on shadow with the turning of Thy glass; Let others take the burden up when we ourselves are gone, Though we see not the Promised Land, the Ark still journeys on. Then grant us, Lord, that day by day, we build so fair and straight, Our work may stand to its high purpose sternly dedicate; For well we know its not timber, plane nor saw nor rule, But the spirit of its people that shall build and keep a school. Then grant to use, Thy children, that for Thy work we raise A school whose floor is earnest prayer, whose walls and roof are praise Whose keystone o'er the entrance bears the Master's own impress, Whose corridors are laughter and whose windows happiness. And o'er that inner holy shrine that we would raise to Thee, Be carved the six emblazoned words that guard thy sanctuary; Taht by the steps Obedience, and Courage, we may rise Through Fellowship and Service to the Cross of Sacrifice. © Chilton Saint James 2023