Let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare His works with rejoicing. They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters.
Psalm 107:22–23
Words: Robert Fergusson, circa 1838. Published in Liturgy and Hymns for the Use of the Protestant Church of the United Brethren, or Moravians (Bethlehem, Pennsylvania: Moravian Publication Office, 1866), number 922.
Music: Wareham William Knapp, 1738 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good picture of Fergusson (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
This ship we now commend to Thee,
Thou God of providence and grace;
Here may Thy presence ever dwell,
To sanctify and bless the place.
Lord, speed the vessel in its course;
Let winds and waves propitious be;
Let Thy divine protection shield
All whom we now commend to Thee.
Hallowed to Thee be every heart:
Instructed in Thy righteous will,
Where’er they go, whate’er they do,
In all, Thy great designs fulfill.
O God of Bethel! hear our prayer,
And keep Thy servants to the end;
Then let us meet around Thy throne,
A blest eternity to spend.