You Are My Light And My Salvation Anthem

Handel's melody from Julius Caesar is set in a simple refrain-stanza format. Stanza 1 declares that our enemies fled, and stanza 2 continues our strength and security even when surrounded by our enemies. The largando final phrase completes the anthem in true Handel form. The accompaniment moves along with the voices without encumbrance to the melodic line. Vocal ranges are moderate. The repetition of the refrain and brief stanzas makes this easy to teach and sing. Performance options include use as the Psalter lesson, a call to the reading of the daily lessons, a response to the assurance of pardon, or as an anthem. The refrain may be used as a call to worship. Appropriate use: Sovereignty of God, use of Psalm 27, God as light, and general worship.