O PARADISE eternal! What bliss to enter thee, And once within thy portals, Secure for ever be!
In thee no sin or sorrow, No pain or death is known; But pure glad life, enduring As God’s eternal throne.
There all around shall love us, And we return their love; One band of happy spirits, One family above.
There God shall be our portion, And we His jewels be; And gracing His bright mansions, His smile reflect and see.
So songs shall rise for ever, While all creation fair, Still more and more revealing Shall wake fresh praises there.
O Paradise eternal, What joys in thee are known! O God of mercy, guide us, Till all be felt our own!
Thomas Davis, 1804-87