Service Book and Hymnal of the Lutheran Church in America ‎#245b

245b. Blessed city, heavenly Salem

Blessed city, heavenly Salem,
Vision dear of peace and love,
Who, of living stones upbuilded,
Art the joy of heaven above,
And, with angel cohorts circled,
As a bride to earth dost move!

2 From celestial realms descending,
Bridal glory round her shed,
To his presence, decked with jewels,
By her Lord shall she be led:
All her streets, and all her bulwarks,
Of pure gold are fashioned. A-men.

3 Bright with pearls her portals glitter,
They are open evermore;
And, by virtue of his merits,
Thither faithful souls may soar
Who for Christ's dear Name in this world
Pain and tribulation bore.

4 Many a blow and biting sculpture
Fashioned well those stones elect,
In their places now compacted
By the heavenly architect,
Who therewith hath willed for ever
That his palace should be decked.

5 Laud and honor to the Father;
Laud and honor to the Son;
Laud and honor to the Spirit;
Ever Three and ever One:
Consubstantial, co-eternal,
While unending ages run.

Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: Blessed city, heavenly Salem
• Translator: John Mason Neale, 1818 - 66
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1958
• Topic: The Church Year: Saints' Days - Minor Festivals; The Life In Christ: Life Everlasting; The Church: The House of God
• Source: Latin Hymn, cir. VII cent.
• Notes: This hymn may also be sung to REGENT SQUARE (No. 242).

Tune Information

• Name: URBS BEATA
• Meter: 8 7, 8 7, 8 7.
• Key: f minor
• Source: Plainsong, Mode II