THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD A, B, C

When the feast of the Epiphany arrives, the liturgy calls for a sense of universal majesty. This setting of Psalm 71 (72) captures that exact feeling, giving the choir and congregation a bold, declarative refrain: "All nations shall fall prostrate before you, O Lord." It is a fitting piece for the Responsorial Psalm on this solemnity, drawing everyone into the mystery of Christ revealing Himself to the whole world.

The verses carry the prophetic imagery of the season. As the cantor chants about the kings of Tarshish, Sheba, and Seba bringing their tributes, we are reminded of the Magi journeying to the manger. The arrangement keeps the verses flowing naturally, allowing the text's promise of justice and peace to shine through clearly before the choir returns to the triumphant refrain.

To complete the liturgy of the Word for the day, the sheet also includes the Gospel Acclamation. Singing "We saw his star as it rose" perfectly sets the stage for the Gospel reading, tying the psalm's ancient prophecies directly to the arrival of the wise men. It is a practical and spiritually uplifting addition to any choir's Christmas and Epiphany repertoire.