Behold, I Send You

Jude Nnam’s "Behold, I Send You" is a stirring call to mission, drawing its text directly from Christ’s commissioning of the apostles. It captures the weight and the quiet confidence of being sent out into the world to spread the Gospel. The melody moves with a steady, walking pace, reflecting the journey of faith that priests, religious, and everyday believers undertake when they answer God's call.

The piece opens with unison verses that feel like a shared march, urging the choir to sing with one voice about building the King's highway through deserts and deep morasses. This unison singing creates a strong sense of collective purpose before blossoming into the four-part harmony of the refrain. In the loft, the transition from the unison verses to the SATB refrain is always a powerful moment, as the choir takes on the voice of Christ Himself: "Behold, I send you like sheep among the wolves."

Because of its clear focus on ministry and going forth, this song is a natural choice for Ordination Masses, mission send-offs, or as a Recessional hymn when the congregation is sent back into the world. The final promise of the refrain—"I am with you always, says the Lord"—leaves the people with a lasting sense of comfort and divine backing as they step out of the church doors.