I was also confirmed in 1969 - and no we did not use that hymn. Nor did we sing Onward Christian Soldiers, though that too is appropriate.
Yes, the words might seem hokey - but they speak truth. Once you have validly been Confirmed, you are indeed a Soldier for Christ, master of your soul. You should know enough to defend your faith.....and the Devil cannot take it from you, unless you allow that to happen.
Onward Christian Soldiers, written by Arthur S. Sullivan (of Gilbert & Sullivan fame), and Sabine Baring-Gould who penned 5 verses of lyrics. The 4th verse is:
"Crowns and thrones may perish, kingdoms rise and wane, but the Church of Jesus constant shall remain;
Gates of hell can never "gainst that church prevail; we have Christ's own promise, and that cannoT fail."
But of course if you or I suggested this hymn we would be laughed at, and/or banished from the parish.
But of course if you or I suggested this hymn we would be laughed at, and/or banished from the parish.
How did you guess? That's just what happened, I was laughed at, not banished, just ostracized. This however turned out to be a GRACE!