Lord, Grant Us Thy Peace

Lord, Grant Us Thy Peace is a plea for God’s presence and peace in the world. Beginning with a chant-like setting of St. Francis’ prayer “Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace,” it moves into a rhythmically driving, bluesy section based on texts from several psalms, all pleading and yearning for God’s presence: “Lord, God, hear my wailing…My God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from me?…Where are you, Lord?” etc., building up into a climax on the repeated word “Where?” The music subsides and a gentle baritone solo intones “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Put your trust in God.” The opening chant returns with the words “Lord, grant us thy peace” and the piece ends with some degree of consolation and hope.