ARISE, O GOD, AND SHINE (Rejoice, the Lord is King)

When a choir needs a truly magnificent anthem for a feast day, this arrangement by Mack Wilberg offers a brilliant solution. Set to the soaring, dignified tune of Darwall's 148th, the score provides two classic texts to choose from. A choir can sing William Hurn's "Arise, O God, and Shine," a prayer for God's light and mercy to reach all nations, or they can raise the roof with Charles Wesley's triumphant "Rejoice, the Lord is King!"

The music itself is built for grand spaces and joyful worship. It begins with a bright, steady organ introduction before the voices enter, gradually building from unison and two-part textures into full, majestic harmony. As the piece moves toward its climax, the final stanza introduces a soaring soprano descant that lifts the entire congregation.

Because of its dual texts, this piece is incredibly versatile in the choir loft. "Rejoice, the Lord is King" is a perfect fit for the Feast of Christ the King, Eastertide, or a powerful recessional, while "Arise, O God, and Shine" works beautifully for Epiphany or missions-focused liturgies. Whichever words are chosen, the driving energy and the final, resounding "Amen!" leave the congregation uplifted and ready to go forth.