THE COMING OF THE LORD (O COME, O COME EMMANUEL)

"The Coming of the Lord" is a stirring Advent anthem that merges the urgent call of John the Baptist with the ancient longing of "O Come, O Come Emmanuel." Written by Pepper Choplin, this piece captures the electric anticipation of the season. It opens with a bright, rhythmic summons to lift up our heads and make the highway straight, reminding the congregation that our waiting will soon end and God’s glory will descend.

As the anthem unfolds, a soloist introduces the familiar, haunting melody of the traditional Emmanuel hymn. Beneath this solo, the rest of the choir provides a driving, rhythmic foundation, repeating the call to prepare the way. This layering creates a wonderful sense of momentum in the choir loft, building toward the joyful promise that the deaf will hear, the blind will see, and the lame will leap for joy.

Perfect for the weeks leading up to Christmas, this piece brings a sense of joyful urgency to the liturgy. It moves the faithful not just to wait passively, but to actively ready their hearts for Christ. The final, triumphant "Rejoice, rejoice" leaves the congregation with a profound sense of hope, anchoring the ancient prophecies firmly in the present moment of worship.