Who Shall Separate Us?

Especially commissioned by the Dean & Chapter of Westminster for performance at the funeral service of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey on Monday 19 September 2022. The text, from St Paul's Letter to the Romans, perfectly reflects the late Queen's steadfast Christian faith, as demonstrated by her unswerving devotion to her destiny as a national and world leader, and as personally expressed in her annual Christmas broadcasts.

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nothing present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, whichis in Christ Jesus our Lord. Alleluia. Amen.”

The work expresses hope, triumph and rejoicing; while fitting for memorial and remembrance services in general. it will also be found suitable at Easter and for general use. As an alternative to “Allelulia,” a verse from the Book of Revelation is provided, for use during penitential seasons.

“Composer Sir James MacMillan's anthem hits the right note ... He joins a list of composers of royal funeral music stretching back to Henry Purcell and George Frideric Handel.” –The Times