LENTEN MUSIC
Even though the Sundays in Lent are not
considered to be part of Lent, our worship during this
time tends to be more reflective and contrite, and
elements like the organ and choral music are quieter
and more introspective also. The choir has learned
several new anthems for this Lenten season that I
would say are “different” from our norm. The anthem
for the coming Sunday is by the contemporary
composer Gabriel Jackson, born in 1962. It is quite
short, with harmonies very different from most of the
music we sing. The text, by St. Augustine of Hippo,
dates from the early part of the fifth century. In this
blending of old and new is a lovely prayer not only
for Lent, but for any time.
O thou that art the light of the minds that know thee,
The life of the souls that love thee,
And the strength of the wills that serve thee:
Help us to know thee that truly love thee,
And so to love thee that we might fully serve thee,
Whom to serve is perfect freedom. Amen.