It’s abundantly clear to me that we each have far more in common than what separates us. In an age of deepening division and strife, we so often forget to see each other—truly see each other—eye to eye.

When I was asked to write a benediction for the First Federated Church of Peoria’s Chancel Choir, I felt deeply honored. That idea of choosing to see one another—choosing love—is how I experienced my time as a regular churchgoer there. I sang in the choirs, occasionally played as a part-time accompanist, and connected with a warm, welcoming community. I was never made to feel othered. I wasn’t questioned, judged, or asked to change. I was accepted fully, without condition or reservation.

This piece is my attempt to give something back—to share the love I felt there.

The Chancel Choir’s director, Russel Boulton, is a dear mentor. His encouragement, joy, and wisdom have shaped the musician and person I am today. He’s not only a gifted musician but also a thoughtful wordsmith. His text, inspired by a short pastoral prayer, reframes it into something both personal and universal:

In our Present is Love.
In our walk, let it be the same.
Like a candle, as long as there is
warmth and light, we can show love.

It’s profoundly simple—and achingly beautiful. But choosing love takes effort. It’s a conscious act, a daily decision. I tried to reflect that tension in the music’s melancholic, plaintive harmonies. A central build leads to a kaleidoscopic weaving of the final two stanzas, the emotional crux of the work. From there, the music gently recedes into a fragile, intimate texture—finally resolving in a final, essential phrase I felt compelled to add:

There is love.

– From the composer