Fratres jam non estis hospites

Jacob Handl's motet Fratres jam non estis hospites is a fine example of sacred Renaissance polyphony. Set in Latin, the text comes from the New Testament, specifically Ephesians 2:19-20, and speaks of believers being fellow citizens with the saints and members of God's household, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. Handl's setting, scored for ATTB or ATBarB voices, explores this rich theological message with skillful counterpoint and harmonic clarity. It is a piece that would serve well in a liturgical setting or as a thoughtful concert anthem, offering a moment of reflection on spiritual community and the foundational role of Christ.