The Lord Bless You and Keep You

When we need a piece that wraps the congregation in absolute peace before they go out into the world, Peter C. Lutkin’s setting of "The Lord Bless You and Keep You" is often the first one we reach for. Taking its text straight from the ancient blessing in the Book of Numbers, the music moves with a gentle, steady reverence. It does not rush; it simply unfolds, offering a profound sense of comfort and divine protection.

In the choir loft, this anthem is a masterclass in breath control and listening to one another. The way the voice parts hand off the phrase "and give you peace" requires a delicate touch, building a quiet warmth that echoes through the nave. We often sing this during the concluding rites of the Mass, sending the people home with a sung benediction. It is also a favorite for weddings and ordinations, where a special, dedicated blessing is called for.

The true heart of the piece, however, lies in its famous conclusion. After the main blessing, the choir enters the "Sevenfold Amen." The sopranos float upward while the lower voices shift the harmony underneath, creating a cascading sequence of Amens that finally resolves into a hushed, reverent stillness. It is a moment that always leaves the church completely quiet before the final procession begins.