On the Friday before Lent begins, the Passionists celebrate a feast particular to their order called the Solemn Commemoration of Passion. Since they can’t make Good Friday their order feast day, they celebrate it early. As it is only found in the Passionist community, it is a truly unique celebration. That being said, I thought it appropriate to share one of the pieces I composed based on the letters of St. Paul of the Cross. In fact, it was the first piece I wrote at the Monastery! The words to this choral work are:
O Divine Goodness, engage us in devotion; answer our time of need; as the Spirit inspires our hearts and minds: O Divine Goodness, hear us as we pray.
Kneel at the Cross, in the sacred silence, let God’s graces rain in abundance.
O Divine Goodness, come to us as incense; that we might be compassion and charity; let the Spirit inspire our hearts and minds: O Divine Goodness, hear as we pray.