THE LORD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU. AMEN

Peter C. Lutkin’s setting of "The Lord Bless You and Keep You" is one of the most cherished choral benedictions in the choir loft. Drawing its text from the ancient priestly blessing in the Book of Numbers, the piece wraps the congregation in a warm, prayerful embrace. It is often sung unaccompanied, allowing the natural resonance of the voices to carry the profound wish for peace and grace.

For many Nigerian choirs, this anthem is a staple at the close of a wedding Mass, an ordination, or a special thanksgiving service. The music begins with a gentle, flowing melody that builds in earnestness as it asks God to "make His face to shine upon you." The true hallmark of the piece, however, is its famous concluding section—a cascading series of "Amens" where the voice parts weave together in a lingering sequence before coming to a quiet, peaceful rest. It is a perfect sending-forth song, leaving both the singers and the faithful with a deep sense of spiritual comfort.