Give me the priest, these graces shall possess:

Of an Ambassador, the just address,

A Father’s tenderness, a Shepherd’s care,

A Leader’s courage which the cross can bear,

A Ruler’s arm, a Watchman’s wakeful eye,

A Pilot’s skill, the helm in storms to ply,

A Fisher’s patience and a Labourer’s toil,

A Guide’s dexterity to disembroil,

A Prophet’s inspiration from above,

A Preacher’s knowledge and a Saviour’s love.

Give me a priest, a light upon a hill,

Whose rays his whole circumference can fill,

In God’s own Word and sacred learning versed,

Deep in the study of the heart immersed,

Who, in such souls, can the disease descry,

And wisely fair restoratives supply.

Thomas Ken (1637-1711).