Christ the Word to earth descended

Charles H. Giffen's setting of Christ the Word to earth descended explores the profound mystery of the Incarnation and the Eucharist. The Latin text, sung here in a bilingual presentation with English translation, draws from the hymnody of the Church. It speaks of the Word of God leaving the Father's side to come to mankind, ultimately offering himself as a sacrifice, first to his disciples in the form of bread and wine, and then in death. The choir, singing SATB, is called upon to convey the theological depth and devotional significance of these sacred texts, moving from the divine condescension of Christ's birth to his redemptive sacrifice and the eternal reward promised in heaven. This is a piece that engages with fundamental tenets of Christian belief.