Egressus Jesus

This motet by Giaches de Wert sets a passage from the Gospel of Matthew, recounting the encounter between Jesus and the Canaanite woman. The text describes her persistent plea for her daughter's healing, Jesus' initial reticence, and his eventual praise of her great faith. De Wert's setting for SSSATBB or SSMsATBarB voices masterfully captures the dramatic narrative and the devotional intensity of the Latin text. The composer's skill is evident in the polyphonic writing, which moves between moments of textural richness and clarity, reflecting the unfolding dialogue and the emotional weight of the plea. This sacred work would be fitting for a service or concert during Lent or Advent, or indeed at any time when the power of faith and compassion is to be explored.