508. Blessed city, heavenly Salem
8.7.8.7.8.7
Urbs Beata:
Sarum Plainsong, Mode II
Oriel:
Caspar Ett, Cantica Sacra, 1840;
harm., William Henry Monk
Latin, c. 7th cent.;
Tr. John Mason Neale, 1851
Blessed city, heavenly Salem, Vision dear of peace and love, Who of living stones art builded In the height of heav'n above, And, with angel hosts encircled, As a bride dost earthward move; | 463 From celestial realms descending, Bridal glory round thee shed, Meet for him whose love espoused thee, To thy Lord shalt thou be led; All thy streets and all thy bulwarks Of pure gold are fashionèd. | Bright thy gates of pearl are shining, They are open evermore; And by virtue of his merits Thither faithful souls do soar, Who, for Christ's dear Name, in this world Pain and tribulation bore. | Many a blow and biting sculpture Polished 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. | Laud and honour to the Father, Laud and honour to the Son, Laud and honour to the Spirit, Ever Three, and ever One, Consubstantial, Co-eternal, While unending ages run. | |