Ubi Caritas et Amor (Deus Ibi Est.)

Mar 15

An apocalyptic setting of the famous Ubi Caritas chant.

5 min • Composed 2023 • Purchase SSA & piano (optional handbells and 3 percussion)

Composer’s notes

“Ubi Caritas et Amor (Deus ibi Est.)” was commissioned by the 2023/24 Bel Canto Women’s Choir. The piece is written in C minor, modulates to Bb minor, and uses frequent cluster chords. My version of this chant is set in an apocalyptic world, with Scripture almost forgotten by humanity, leaving us with only the mysterious elements of nature to declare God’s presence.

Lyrics

Text from Western Church hymn

Where charity and love are, God is there.
Love of Christ has gathered us into one.
Let us rejoice in Him and be glad. Let us fear, and let us love the living God.
And from a sincere heart let us love each other.

Ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est.
Congregavit nos in unum Christi amor.
Exsultemus, et in ipso jucundemur.
Timeamus, et amemus Deum vivum.
Et ex corde diligamus nos sincero.