In principio erat verbum

Michael J. Drake, Jr. sets a profound sacred text in this motet, drawing from the opening of the Gospel of John. The text begins in Greek, stating "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and God was the Word." It continues by describing the Word as the source of all creation and the light of humanity, a light that the darkness could not overcome. The composition then shifts to Latin, introducing John the Baptist as a witness to this light. The SATB voicing allows Drake to explore rich harmonies and contrapuntal textures, creating a musical setting that reflects the theological weight and spiritual significance of the scripture.