by vows of love together bound

by vows of love together bound,
the twain, on earth, are one;
one may their hearts, o lord, be found,
till earthly cares are done.

as from the home of earlier years
they wander, hand in hand,
to pass along, with smiles and tears,
the path of thy command.

with more than earthly parents’ care,
do thou their steps attend;
and with the joys or woes they share,
thy loving kindness blend.

o let the memory of this hour
in future years come nigh
to bind, with sweet, attractive power,
and cheer them till they die.

and to that blessèd, fadeless land,
where partings may not be,
lead them a happy household band
forever near to thee.