Anthem Spotlight: In Christ Alone-3.20.25

There are so many reasons for songwriters to gather together and compose beautiful music. In Christ Alone is a perfect example of how the search for God can generate so many beautiful thoughts and sounds. Written by Stuart Townend and Keith Getty, we find the illustration of their journey to find faith and the true Christ. Keith Getty made a connection with Stuart Townend, who had already written a well-received song, How Deep the Father’s Love for Us. Stuart approached Keith with the idea of writing a song with sufficient verses to tell the entire story of Christ as written in the Bible. The composition required the study and understanding of the Gospels.

The first melody was actually scribbled on the back of an electric bill by Keith. He shared his idea with Stuart, and they moved from that point to the finished product that we have today. It is such a simple, yet intricate song, because you can actually go line by line and find scriptural basis from all of the Old and New Testament, the Letters of the Apostles, the Psalms, etc., regarding the sacred attributes of Christ, our Lord. The keys to the song are the haunting theme and the repetition of the words “In Christ Alone” — always reminding us that there is no one else who could provide the love, support, and power that Jesus gives to sustain us in our mortal lives.

Daniel Kelley, a baritone in St. Peter’s Choir, will offer this beautiful musical tribute on Sunday.