City of God / Awake from Your Slumber (Schutte)

This folk-style hymn is about God's kingdom: it is based Isaiah 9, Isaiah 40 and John1. Some of the lyrics (eg "conquered the night", "turned the night into day") make it particularly suitable for Easter, but it can be used throughout most of the year.

It was written by American liturgical musician and composer, and at-the-time Roman Catholic priest, Daniel L (Dan) Schutte (b 1947).

The song was first published in 1981 by New Dawn Music. It has subsequently been included in compilations by various publishers including GIA (Gather Comprehensive, Oramos Cantando) and Kevin Mayhew Ltd (Hymns Old and New).

It is set to an unnamed tune, also by Schutte. This has a 6/4 time signature. In the key of E, the first few notes are G G AB B A_. The third verse has a different tune to the first two verses, functioning as a bridge.

1 Awake from your slumber! Arise from your sleep! A new day is dawning for all those who weep. The people in darkness have seen a great light. The Lord of our longing has conquered the night. Chorus: Let us build the city of God. May our tears be turned into dancing! For the Lord, our light and our Love, has turned the night into day! 2 We are sons of the morning; we are daughters of day. The One who has loved us has brightened our way. The Lord of all kindness has called us to be a light for his people to set their hearts free. 3 (coda) God is light; in him there is no darkness. Let us walk in his light, his children one and all. O comfort my people make gentle your words, proclaim to my city the day of her birth. 4 O city of gladness, now lift up your voice! proclaim the good tidings that all may rejoice!

Downloads

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Choral arrangement (SATB) by Jane Holstein. Digital download.

Piano / voice / guitar arrangement

Examples

Small group and congregation, with piano, guitar, violin and trombone

Small group, guitar led

Contemporary choir, organ and band accompaniment

Solo singer and chorus with guitar - probably the original recording

Instrumental - guitar, 1st verse and chorus

Lyrics

The lyrics are copyright so cannot be reproduced here. But they are currently available on this website. A rough outline is:

1 Awake from your slumber! Arise from your sleep ...

Chorus:
Let us build the city of God.
May our tears be turned into dancing,
For the Lord, our light and our love,
has turned the night into day.

2 We are sons of the morning; we are daughters of day ...

3 (coda) God is light; in him there is no darkness....
... O comfort my people make gentle your words ...

4 O city of gladness, now lift up your voice ...