We Are Your Church, O Christ: Choral Instrumental Pak
As performed by J. Paul Williams / Arranged by Joseph Martin
Item: 35-PK00261758
$75.00
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Description
Uses: General, Pentecost, Evangelism, Reformation, Church Anniversary Scripture: I Corinthians 12:12-27; I Peter 2:9-10; Acts 20:28 The last e-mail between two best friends, J. Paul Williams and Joseph Martin, contained the text of this inspiring testimony of faith. Written for a church Paul served during the early days of his ministry, this anthem was completed posthumously and represents the crowning effort for this popular writing team. Strong arching melodic gestures sequence and crescendo lifting to the heights these words: grace is our miracle, we are your church O, Christ. Available separately: SATB, StudioTrax CD (Accomp., SplitTrax, Perf.), Orchestration (Score Parts for Flute 1 2, Oboe, Clarinet 1 2, Bassoon, Horn 1 2, Trumpets 1-3, Trombone 1 2, Bass Trombone/Tuba, Timpani, Percussion, Harp, Piano, Violin 1 2, Viola, Cello, Double Bass). Duration: ca. 3:53.
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00261758
More about this title
About the Artist: J. Paul Williams
J. Paul Williams earned his Bachelor of Music in voice from Oklahoma Baptist University and his Master of Music in theory and composition from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Throughout his career, he established himself as a prolific voice in both school and church music, with over 700 titles published across 25 different publishers. For the final 350 of these compositions, he shifted to lyricist work exclusively, collaborating with more than 50 composers to create music performed by choirs worldwide.
Williams spent 35 years as a Minister of Music, serving churches across Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas, including 17 years on the staff of Calvary Baptist Church in Little Rock. His work was regularly featured at the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, and he led clinics and workshops from coast to coast. In 1992, he transitioned to full-time lyricist and clinician work, cementing his influence on generations of church musicians.
Why we love this
This anthem carries genuine weight as the final collaboration between two master songwriters, making it a meaningful addition to any worship or concert program. The arching melodic gestures and deliberate crescendos create natural building blocks for your choir to shape and communicate, turning the text into a powerful corporate statement. Joseph Martin's completion of Williams' vision ensures both the musical craftsmanship and the emotional authenticity that define their partnership.
What to expect
The music unfolds with dignity and conviction, building from intimate testimony to a soaring affirmation of faith. You'll hear the hand of an experienced lyricist meeting an experienced composer in every phrase, with melodic lines that feel both singable and profound.
Who it's for
This works for churches seeking meaningful anthem repertoire with strong theological grounding, particularly for services exploring themes of community, witness, and faith. It suits choirs with solid vocal technique and access to instrumental support, whether a full orchestra or a smaller ensemble.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the strong melodic arches with intention; these sequences are designed to build incrementally, so resist the urge to give away your dynamic energy too early.
- The full orchestration transforms this from anthem to centerpiece. Even a modest instrumental ensemble (piano plus strings or winds) elevates the impact significantly.
- Give particular attention to the text painting around 'grace is our miracle' and 'we are your church O Christ.' These moments demand clarity and warmth from your singers.
How to use it
Consider this for a Pentecost or church anniversary service where you want to emphasize unity and shared mission. It's equally effective as a centerpiece on a general worship program, particularly when you can feature the orchestration or have the accompaniment personnel available to execute it fully.
Skills your students will build
- Shaping extended melodic phrases across multiple breath points
- Balancing solo passages with ensemble support
- Responding to instrumental cues and orchestral texture
- Conveying theological conviction through text interpretation