Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

Shall We Gather at the River

Robert Lowry

An exceptionally talented American Baptist minister, composer, and university professor (1826–1899). Known for his brilliant preaching and composing, Lowry wrote the words and music of classic hymns like 'Shall We Gather at the River' (composed during a severe heat epidemic in Brooklyn) and 'Low in the Grave He Lay' ('Christ Arose'), bringing joy and energy to congregational singing.

Source: Happy Voices

Shall we gather at the river,
Where bright angel feet have trod;
With its crystal tide forever
Flowing by the throne of God?
Yes, we'll gather at the river,
The beautiful, the beautiful river;
Gather with the saints at the river
That flows by the throne of God.
On the margin of the river,
Washing up its silver spray,
We will walk and worship ever,
All the happy golden day.
Ere we reach the shining river,
Lay we ev'ry burden down;
Grace our spirits will deliver,
And provide a robe and crown.
Soon we'll reach the shining river,
Soon our pilgrimage will cease;
Soon our happy hearts will quiver
With the melody of peace.