Canticle for Peace

Click HERE for score and parts.

The text for “Canticle for Peace” was written as a reflection of the world religions.

The goal was to represent the essence of peace and freedom displayed in the

beginning of time and how we were all created and destined to live together in this

world.

Cardinal John J. O'Connor, Archbishop of New York, led the standing ovation of 

United  Nations Ambassadors and guests in support of the inherent message at the world 

premiere, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights. This 

work was performed by a choir of hand-picked professional singers conducted by me and 

accompanied by James at the Holy Family Church in September 1988. "Canticle for 

"Peace" was submitted for a Pulitzer Prize nomination. 

In today’s continued quest for world peace, this composition represents the creation of 

the world, the turmoil and the steps we can take as humanity to achieve the ultimate goal 

— as it was in the beginning . . . . .

Debra Rue

August 2016