Good Friday – Stabat Mater

Our traditional Good Friday service will feature the “Stabat Mater” by Welsh composer, Paul Mealor, performed by the AHCC Sanctuary Choir and strings, as well as the hauntingly beautiful “Adagio for Strings,” by American composer, Samuel Barber.

The 13th century Stabat Mater text (“The mournful mother was standing”), is a powerful meditation upon the sufferings of Mary during the crucifixion of her son. As he hangs, dying on the cross, she shares his agony and his pain. However, the poem is also an offering of hope that through the sacrifice of Christ, we may all be free of suffering. The 24-minute setting is divided into four sections, that are performed without a break.