Responsorial Psalm for the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

As the liturgical year reaches its peak on the Solemnity of Christ the King, the Church gives us a surprisingly gentle image of our sovereign: the Good Shepherd. This responsorial psalm setting by Itua Inetiabor captures that quiet majesty, setting Psalm 23 to a sweeping, Maestoso melody in 12/8 time.

The refrain, "The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want," is arranged for a full four-part choir, offering a rich and comforting anchor for the congregation to sing. The verses then unfold in a single melodic line, carrying the familiar, reassuring words of green pastures, restful waters, and the overflowing cup.

It is a beautiful piece for the cantor and choir to lead during the Liturgy of the Word. Singing these verses from the ambo or the choir loft reminds everyone in the pews that the King of the Universe is also the shepherd who guides, feeds, and revives our souls.