A New Jerusalem Arise

A New Jerusalem Arise

Kyle Pederson (2022)

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Voicing: SATB, SSA
Accompaniment: piano with optional cello, organ, kick drum, and handbell. Optional narration and congregational singing
Commissioned by the Chancel Choir of First United Methodist Church in Sioux Falls, SD, in honor of Roy and Doris Luken. 
Text inspired by the following scripture passages: Isaiah 65: 17-19, Isaiah 43:19, Revelation 21: 1-27

LYRICS

No more sickness,
no more crying;
your mourning will turn to dancing.
I will make a pathway in the wilderness
and a river in the dry land.

No more hatred,
no indifference;
unfairness will yield to justice.
I will make a passage to a free land;
all colors there are blessings.

I will wipe all the tears from your eyes.
A new Jerusalem arise.
A new creation come alive; 
Into the dawning after dark...arise!

Only kindness,
only goodness;
all people will live compassion.
Hand in hand they love and work together, walking in the Spirit. 

I'm making all things new. 
After fire, after flood, after rain...
through the dark, through the doubt, through the pain...
I'm making all things new. 

Performance note:

The piece may be accompanied on piano only, or with the optional addition of any combination of organ, cello, and handbells. If organ is utilized, it is recommended that a very light string pad/registration be used in M39-90.  When the organ enters again at M92, the registration can be a bit more prominent, with the goal of really swelling in volume as the piece builds to the end. Let those pews rumble...with all instrumental forces playing, all voices singing, and congregation added, this dramatic build is designed to be a high-impact moment where music and lyrics continue to wash over the listener.  (You may even opt to add a kick drum beginning at the bridge in M75 for additional impact.)