Strong Was Her Heart

Strong was her heart that heard God's voice

When far it called across the sea.

And swiftly came the answer of her love

That gave its all triumphantly.

For thou wert ready, Philippine,

To let God's zeal take fire in thee.

Hard was the road beneath her feet

And far it stretched through shadowed years.

But stronger was the love that led her on

And brave the faith that conquered fears.

For God was with thee, Philippine,

And drew his harvest from thy tears.

Glad are our hearts that sing to thee

Who in your glory have a share; for

Now we reap the grain that thou hast sown,

The hundredfold of ripened prayer.

'Til strong like thee, 0 Philippine,

Our hearts grow brave to do and dare.

Crowned art thou now by holy Church;

And may thy love-filled life inspire

New love for Christ's own Sacred Heart,

Fulfilling thus thy deep desire.

For great thy power, 0 Philippine,

To kindle through the world God's fire.