6. Poems

Saint Gabriel Possenti

by Fra. Cornelius, O. F. M.

Hero of God whose span was brief,
Thou little Saint of our own days,
I think of thee with glad relief
Instruct me in thy happy” ways.

Laved at my Father’s natal fount,
Who would not hope thy – saintship, too?
Assisi claims thee, tho the Mount
Of Mary’s Dolors birthed thee new.

Our youth has seen thy meteor-trail
But stand aghast; — the price is high.
And starred in worldly aims, the veil
Of Heaven falls; — they dare not try.

Gabriel, chosen guide of youth
To dolored Mary join in prayer.
Implore Dispensers of the Truth,
For truth lies prostrate everywhere.

Teeming the fields, the harvests great;
Of earnest workers there is need
To check the World’s much threatened fate
By” apostolic word and deed.