Seven Last Words of Christ

- Gary D. Penkala

Audio Samples: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven

Audio Sample Notes

Audio Sample Help

Use: Lent
Required Resources: SAB choir
Language: Latin

"Father, forgive them..." "Today thou wilt be with me..." "Behold thy mother..." "My God, why hast Thou forsaken me?" "I thirst." "It is finished" and "Into Thy hands I commend my spirit." These Scriptural quotes of Christ on the cross are here set in the rich and pure tones of the Latin language. Scored for a cappella SAB choir, these seven phrases are given concise and effective treatment, each being about one page long. Beginning in g minor, the short sections progress through B-flat major, F major and d minor before ending in g minor.

With a translation printed in a liturgy sheet or read prior to each word, the "Seven Last Words" makes an ideal meditation during a Lenten penitential service or during the Veneration of the Cross on Good Friday.