O Sacrum Convivum
from Cantata for the Divine Hours (2025)
for SATB
Duration: 5 minutes
Live Recording: Sarah Parks and the St. Norbert Chamber Singers
Composed for the 100th anniversary of St. Norbert Abbey, Cantata for the Divine Hours is inspired by the stained glass windows of the Abbey church. The divine hours, or liturgy of the hours, is a set of prayers, psalms, hymns, and canticles prayed by Catholics, particularly clergy, at specific times throughout the day. Each liturgical hour has its own set of texts. The work is specifically structured around the North Clerestory Windows depicting Vespers (evening prayer), Compline (night prayer), Antiphons of Mary (after night prayer), Matins (early morning prayer), and Lauds (morning prayer).
O Sacrum Convivium is based on the Great West Window above the entrance of the church, which prominently displays the Holy Trinity and St. Norbert. Themes of salvation and the Eucharist are prominently symbolized in the abundance of wheat displayed on the Great West Window. For this reason, I chose to set a communion hymn of St. Thomas Aquinas, O Sacrum Convivium (O Sacred Banquet). By spotlighting the unaccompanied choir, the music aims to focus on the mystery and glory of Christ’s presence in holy communion. Moments of gentle undulation on words such as memoria, gratia, and the final utterance of Christus are inspired by the reflective nature of the text.
For images of the windows and more detailed notes about the cantata, consult the Program.