As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Cathedral of St Stephen Schola lift their voices in reverent song, honouring Our Lady with Alma Redemptoris Mater by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina (1525–1594). This timeless work invites us to pause and enter into the gentle mystery of Mary’s motherhood. May this feast day inspire us to lift our hearts to Mary in prayer and praise, trusting in her intercession and love.

Alma Redemptoris Mater, quae pervia caeli porta manes, et stella maris, succurre cadenti surgere qui curat populo: Tu quae genuisti, natura mirante, tuum sanctum Genitorem: Virgo prius ac posterius, Gabrielis ab ore sumens illud Ave, peccatorum miserere.

Loving Mother of the Redeemer, who remains the gate by which we mortals enter heaven, and star of the sea, help your fallen people who strive to rise: You who gave birth, amazing nature, to your sacred Creator: Virgin prior and following, taking from the mouth of Gabriel that Hail! have mercy on our sins.