[ConorMacNessa]

GOD BLESS AND PROTECT OUR TROOPS!

The Lord’s Prayer – Andrea Bocelli

DEAR GOD, who suffered torment, agony,
and death upon the Cross to free our souls
from the chains of iniquity, protect and defend
our troops. Guide them in the performance of
their duties. Strengthen them to endure hard-
ship,danger and deprivation in Your service. Let
their efforts free the people of Iraq and Afghan-
istan from the chains of terror and slavery,
foster a lasting peace in the region, and bring all
to a greater share in Your Mercy.
Amen.

Lamh Foistenach Abu!

[Publius]

This is the Malotte setting of "The Lord's Prayer", written early in the 20th Century.

My mother was introduced to it at South Philadelphia High School in the Thirties as a choral work. (This was back before the courts got involved in such matters.) Although Catholic, she valued this Protestant setting as one of her favorites.

At her funeral in 2002, it was sung by a soprano cantor and the priest, who joined her in harmony in the middle section. The priest had a fine lyric tenor voice that was too small for the opera house, so he chose the priesthood instead.

It was a beautiful rendition and touched me deeply.