A formal setting for choir celebrating the transforming work of Christ’s love. The text is a blend of Latin and English. Although written for an academic environment, it would also be appropriate as part of a religious service.
SAB Choir and Piano | Grade 3 | 5:00
Performance materials available through:
Commissioned by the Agape Christi Academy for their 10th Anniversary
Dedicated to Mrs. Kayla Rigney
About the piece
Caritas Christi Urget Nos is a sacred piece written for soprano, alto, and baritone voices with piano accompaniment. The idea of being motivated by Christ’s love is central to Agape Christi Academy’s mission to educate young people. Appropriately, the Latin text of the title translates to “the love of Christ compels us”. The overall inspiration for the piece comes from 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that One died for all, therefore all died. And He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and was raised again.” (public domain translation).
The piece was primarily commissioned to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Agape Christi Academy. It also honors one of their staff members, Mrs. Kayla Rigney. In addition to the full piece, an excerpt was prepared for the school to use outside of formal concerts.
Musically, the mood of the piece is simultaneously solemn and yet uplifting; the task of living for others is a great responsibility and yet also a great blessing. Simple, unison vocals accompanied by piano slowly build into layered divisi parts as the song progresses. The minimalist lyrics of Caritas Christi encourage listeners to reflect on the beauty of the music itself, as well as the message. For the inspiration for this music, and for any joy that it may bring to its performers and audiences, I give all glory to God.
Caritas Christi Urget Nos premiered on May 30th, 2023 at Agape Christi Academy, Jody Blauw conducting.
Lyrics
Caritas Christi urget nos
That those who live
Should no longer live for themselves
But for him who died for them
And was raised
Paul Cravens 