SEND FORTH YOUR SPIRIT

"Send Forth Your Spirit" is a reverent Offertory and Consecration hymn that calls upon the Holy Spirit to bless the gifts of bread and wine. Drawing directly from the Eucharistic prayers of the Mass, the lyrics ask God to purify and consecrate the offerings, comparing them to the ancient, acceptable sacrifices of Abel and the high priest Melchizedek.

In the choir loft, this piece serves beautifully during the preparation of the gifts. The verses guide the congregation through the mystery of the Eucharist, moving from the presentation of bread and wine to the anticipation of them becoming the Body and Blood of Christ. The final verse echoes the Memorial Acclamation, reminding the faithful of the core of the Mass: proclaiming the Lord's death until He comes again.

Written for a four-part choir by Azuine-Uche Bruno, the arrangement flows with a steady, prayerful tempo. The invocation of the Holy Spirit makes it a fitting choice for Pentecost Sunday, seamlessly blending the themes of the Spirit's descent with the Eucharistic sacrifice at the altar.