Ah, Holy Jesus

Use: Lent, Holy Week
Required Resources: SATB choir
Language: English

The text of the chorale Herzliebster Jesu, in its English translation by Robert Bridges, is the basis for this a cappella SATB motet by Stephen DeCesare (BMI). Verses one, three and five place the original melody in the soprano line, while verses two and four put the melody in the tenor line. Verse one offers an example of the poignant theme of this work:

"Ah, holy Jesus, how hast Thou offended,
That man to judge Thee hath in hate pretended?
By foes derided, by Thine own rejected,
O most afflicted."

A solid motet with good voice leading, DeCesare's moving, Ah, Holy Jesus would be a welcome part of any parish's Lenten choral repertoire.