Finding the perfect music for your Lent services can be a challenge—especially with everything else on your plate as a choir director. From planning rehearsals and concerts to juggling tech setups and accompanists, we know your time is precious—and J.W. Pepper is here to help. In this video, we’re sharing brand-new anthems for adult choirs that are perfect for Lent. Our Editors’ Choice selections feature a mix of traditional, liturgical, and modern/contemporary styles to fit any service or performance. These handpicked pieces are sure to inspire your choir and congregation.
In the Cross of Christ I Glory
arr. Sean Paul – Hope Publishing Company
Suitable for Lent and Holy Week, the familiar John Bowring text paired with BEACH SPRING is a lovely combination. The coda features an a cappella appearance of Near the Cross and concludes with a hushed return of the opening material to evocative effect.
Starts at :51
God So Loved
Mary McDonald – Jubilate Music Group
With reverence and awe, the immortal biblical passage John 3:16-18 is set sensitively and beautifully to stunning new music. Hear these poignant and deeply moving words anew through this sensitive and amazing offering. Gorgeous!
Starts at 1:40
The Old Rugged Cross
George Bennard, Heather Sorenson – Hal Leonard Corporation
This modern, expressive treatment of a classic text paints a vivid portrait of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Deeply moving harmonic moments mingle with engaging praise style affirmations and piano and instrumental figurations to create a richly emotional sacred song.
Starts at 2:37
When Jesus Wept
arr. Philip L. Roberts – MorningStar Music Publishers
The much-loved early American song by William Billings is arranged here for SATB or TTBB voices and is appropriate for church and community choirs. This arrangement captures much of the early American feel yet incorporates a modern accompaniment with optional handbells that use the singing bell technique on the final verse.
Starts at 3:26
Before the Cross of Christ We Stand
Lloyd Larson – Beckenhorst Press
“Before the cross of Christ we stand and gaze upon the nail-pierced hands of Him who died that we might live eternally.” This heartfelt setting with piano provides an accessible and meaningful addition to your Lenten season or as a reflection on the cross for a Good Friday service.
Starts at 4:17
The Mercy Seat
James Barnard – Lorenz Corporation
Combining a profound John Newton text with a haunting original melody, this selection for Holy Week will surely linger in the minds and hearts of your listeners. The atmospheric piano accompaniment and optional cello perfectly support the beautifully flowing melody, and a brief a cappella section highlights this stellar composition.
Starts at 5:08
My Song Is Love Unknown
Karen Marrolli – MorningStar Music Publishers
This original setting of the wonderful Samuel Crossman text has a lovely interplay between the voices, instruments, and piano. It is appropriate for use during Lent or at other times in the church year. The violin and cello parts are optional but add a great deal to the overall effect of the piece.
Starts at 5:53
Were You There?
arr. Mary McDonald – Medallion Music
This timeless spiritual paints a vivid picture of the solemn events of Jesus’ death. With thoughtful key changes throughout, each verse is fresh and approached with creative expertise. A majestic climax on the final verse leads into a meditative closing that will abide with your congregation.
Starts at 6:45
