Deus misereatur nostri

This motet by Alexander Utendal sets a Latin text expressing a prayer for divine mercy, guidance, and salvation. The music unfolds with the hopeful plea, 'God, have mercy on us and bless us; may his face shine upon us.' The text moves from a personal supplication to a universal proclamation of God's justice and a joyous celebration by all nations. It calls for recognition of God's ways and salvation throughout the earth, culminating in a blessing upon the land and a universal fear of God. Utendal's setting for SSATBB voices likely reflects the varied emotional contours of the text, from humble entreaty to exultant praise.