This little child whom I to-day
Baptize with water clear,
And dedicate with solemn vows
To all most high and dear,

It is for you, dear friends, to take,
And in a holier way
To re-baptize with tenderest love
And care from day to day.

For him may friendship twine her wreath,
And love his rosy chain,
And conscience seal him to herself,
Whate'er the loss and pain.

For him may deep baptismal wells
Of joy serenely flow;
But do not pray that he the power
Of sorrow may not know;

But rather that through light and dark,
Alike through peace and pain,
He, toiling up, the shining peaks
Of righteousness may gain.

So shall your joy in him be great,
And so the pledge, you give
To God this day, shall be redeemed,
And he shall truly live.

And the name which you have given him
Shall be an honored name,
And men shall mention it with love,
Which better is than fame.