Seven Last Words - (SSAATTBB Choir)

Duration: 4'

Program Notes:

The text of the seven last words of Jesus Christ has caught the eyes of composers for the past many centuries. The text compiles the seven last phrases according to all four gospels that Jesus said before His death on the cross. This powerful text displays the emotions and thoughts of Jesus Chirst as He went to be crucified. In this setting, I attempted to display both the anguish and struggle He faced as He accepted His death. At the same time, I strive to capture the tender and gentle moments of Jesus presenting John and Mary to each other and later, committing Himself into the hands of the Father. The piece ends with a quiet, descending, mournful line in the tenors and basses, as He dies and is taken to be buried.

1: Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.

2: Truly I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.

3: Woman, behold your son! Behold your mother!

4: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

5: I thirst.

6: It is finished.

7:Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.