JOSEPH HAYDN'S
The Seven Last Words of Our Savior on the Cross
A musical meditation for Lent, inviting reflection through the Church’s penitential tradition. This will be followed by a blessing with the Relic of the True Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
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Background

The Seven Last Words of Our Savior on the Cross, composed by Joseph Haydn in 1786 for a Good Friday devotion at the Oratory of the Holy Cave in Cádiz, Spain, was written not as a concert work but as a sustained musical meditation on Christ’s final words from the Cross.

Conceived to accompany silence, prayer, and contemplation, the work has long been recognized as one of the most profound sacred compositions of the Western tradition. At St. Michael’s Abbey, this music is received in the spirit for which it was created: as an offering, where sacred music serves contemplation.

As a monastery of canons regular, the Abbey offers a sacred place where great sacred music can once again serve its highest purpose—drawing the faithful into silence, contemplation, and deeper union with the mystery of Christ’s Passion, supported by the prayer of the Church and the living tradition of the liturgy.

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Program
The Seven Last Words of Our Savior on the Cross
Hob. III: 50-56, Op. 51
Introduzione - Maestoso ed Adagio
First Word — “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
Sonata I - Largo
Second Word — “Amen I say to thee, this day thou shalt be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
Sonata II - Grave e cantabile
Third Word — “Woman, behold thy son.” … “Behold thy mother.” (John 19:26–27)
Sonata III - Grave
Fourth Word — “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46)
Sonata IV - Largo
Fifth Word — “I thirst.” (John 19:28)
Sonata V - Adagio
Sixth Word — “It is consummated.” (John 19:30)
Sonata VI - Lento
Seventh Word — “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.” (Luke 23:46)
Sonata VII - Largo
Terremoto - Presto e con tutta la forza
Blessing with Relic of the True Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Date & Location
March 16, 2026
6:15 PM
St. Michael's Abbey
27977 Silverado Canyon Road
Silverado, CA 92676
We Look Forward to Seeing you

Please fill out the adjacent form to reserve your space at this event.

Given the length and contemplative character of the music, attendance is not recommended for young children.

Evening attire is requested.

Questions and special requests directed to:
events@stmichaelsabbey.com