We need them in life's early morning, we need them again at its close;
We feel their warm clasp of true friendship, we seek them when tasting life's woes.

At the alter each day we behold them, and the hands of a king on his throne;
are not equal to them in their greatness; their dignity stands all alone.

And when we are tempted and wander to pathways of shame and of sin,
It's the hand of a priest that will absolve us not once, but again and again;

And when we are taking life's partner, other hands may prepare us a feast.
But the hands that will bless and unite us is the beautiful hands of a priest.

God bless them and keep them all holy for the Host which their fingers caress;
When can a poor sinner do better than to ask Him to guide him and bless?

When the hour of death comes upon us may our courage and strength be increased.
By seeing raised over us in blessing the beautiful hands of a priest.

(Author unknown.)