Songs and Psalms for Ascension Sunday
An offering of new and legacy releases to consider for Ascension Sunday from the GIA catalog.
The Ascension of the Lord commemorates Christ’s return to the Father, as described in Acts of the Apostles 1:9–11.
Musically, the Ascension sits at the hinge between Easter joy and the anticipation of Pentecost. The liturgy retains the Easter character—including the continued use of the Alleluia—but introduces a sense of upward movement and mission.
Choral Suggestions
To the Ends of the Earth
With a text that echoes the universal call to holiness, mercy and discipleship, and serving as a majestic and graspable hymn for the assembly, “To the Ends of the Earth” truly shines within a community of voices and instruments.
The choral and organ accompaniment can be flexibly accessorized with the festive brass quintet/timpani/cymbal arrangement, as well as celebratory woodwinds, strings, and even 3 octaves of handbells! -Maureen Briare
I Am Always with You
Marilyn and James Biery have partnered to create a song suitable for many moments in the life of a congregation. The text, inspired by Matthew 28, is especially perfect for celebrations like Ascension and the entirety of the Easter season. The simple arrangement provides accessibility to both small and larger ensembles alike.
Concertato on HYFRYDOL
Originally arranged for Chrism Masses, “Lord, You Give the Great Commission” has been used at parish events stressing the great command found in Matthew 28:18–20. The strong, quasi-refrain—“With the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry”—enables all to answer Christ’s invitation with an emphatic “Yes.”
The festive setting, with its brass and timpani, a cappella choral stanzas, and instrumental interludes, provides the needed elements for a grand entrance procession, regardless of the text being sung.
Psalm Settings
Psalm 47 for Ascension
This composition may be performed with the scored forces, or it may be simplified by using only soloist, assembly, andpiano/guitar accompaniment. The text emphasizes the kingdom of God and the gifts of the Spirit. Appropriate for Pentecost, confirmation, and celebrations of ministry.
God Mounts His Throne
A spirit-filled contemporary setting of Psalm 47, this piece for SAB choir is led by a soloist or cantor and proclaims the joy of Ascension, especially when adding in the included parts for C instrument and trumpet.
Other Psalm Settings
Leon C. Roberts/Richard Proulx