St John's C of E Primary School
"Use your God-given gifts to serve others." 1 Peter 4: 10
Handel Messiah - Ascension day 15.5.23
On Thursday 18th, it is Ascension Day. This is a Christian celebration marking the day when Jesus ascended (went up) into heaven. Jesus lived on earth for 40 days after Easter.
George Frederick Handel is a very well-known British-German composer who lived 400 years ago. We listened to his anthem ‘Zadok the priest’ for King Charles’ III coronation.
Handel wrote a choral (for a choir) piece of music called ‘The Messiah’. This part of the Oratorio is often sung on Ascension Day as it talks of the King of Glory entering the gates of heaven.
Lift up your heads, O ye gates,
and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors,
and the King of Glory shall come in!
Who is this King of Glory?
The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle.
Lift up your heads, O ye gates,
and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors,
and the King of Glory shall come in!
Who is this King of Glory?
The Lord of Hosts, He is the King of Glory.
(Psalm 24:7-10)
‘The Messiah tells the story of Jesus’ birth to his death and then the glory of heaven. Another very famous movement from it is the ‘Hallelujah’ chorus and proclaims that the King of Kings will reign forever.