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! From celestial realms descending, Ready for the nuptial bed, To His presence, decked with jewels, By her Lord shall she be led: All her streets and all her bulwarks Of pure gold are fashionèd. Bright with pearls her portal glitters; It is 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. Many a blow and biting sculpture Polished well those stones elect, In their places now compacted By the heavenly Architect, Who therewith hath willed forever That His palace should be decked. Christ is made the sure Foundation, And the precious Corner-stone, Who, the two walls underlying, Bound in each, binds both in one, Holy Sion's help forever, And her confidence alone. All that dedicated City, Dearly loved by God on high, In exultant jubilation Pours perpetual melody; God the One, and God the Trinal, Singing everlastingly. To this temple, where we call Thee, Come, O Lord of Hosts, to-day; With Thy wonted loving-kindness Hear Thy people as they pray; And Thy fullest benediction Shed within its walls for aye. Here vouchsafe to all Thy servants What they supplicate to gain; Here to have and hold forever Those good things their prayers obtain; And hereafter in Thy glory With Thy blessèd ones to reign. 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.