This week’s Lenten Music Highlight is Kyrie from Josef Rheinberger’s Cantus Missae (Sung Mass) for double choir in E flat.
Josef Rheinberger (1839 – 1901) was from Liechtenstein, one of the smallest countries in Europe. He showed early talent for music. At age seven, he was already serving as the organist at the parish church in Vaduz, the capital city. Although his father initially opposed his desire to be a professional musician, Josef was eventually allowed to study music and became a composer and organist.
The text for this Kyrie is the same as we sing at Mass during the Penitential Act:
Kyrie eleison, Christe eleison, Kyrie eleisonÂ
Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.
This prayer is always appropriate. During Lent, though, it takes on a special significance. Lent isn’t entirely about focusing on our own shortcomings, but it is a time to recognize the great mercy of God and how reliant each of us is upon his grace. That grace sustains us, always and everywhere, whether or not we’re aware of it. Father Edward once compared it to God’s hand on our back, giving us strength for the moment, helping us to move forward.
As you listen to this piece, take a moment to notice that grace at work in your life, or maybe even feel that hand on your back. Let’s all pray for each other as companions on the journey this Lent.