1 To leave my dear friends, and from neighbors to part,
And go from my home it afflicts my poor heart
With the thoughts of absenting myself far away,
From the house of my God where I've chosen to pray.

2 But Jesus doth call me a message to bear,
To kingdoms, and countries, and islands afar;
His presence will bless me and be with me there,
His spirit inspires me, in answer to pray'r.

3 Then why should I linger with fondest desire
O'er home and the raptures its comforts inspire?
For sweeter O sweeter, the message I bear
To comfort the mourner in answer to prayer.

4 Dear friends, I must leave you, and bid you adieu,
And pay my devotion in parts that are new;
But still I'll remember in pilgrimage there
The joys that we tasted in answer to prayer.

5 How oft, when the day's busy bustle his closed,
And nature lies sleeping in silent repose,
To some lone retreat I will fondly repair,
Remember my kindred, and pray for them there.