The artists among us are those that can look at the commonplace and identify the sublime. Joseph Martin's moving anthem draws its inspiration from Michelangelo's famous sculpture that shows Mary holding the slain Jesus in her arms.  From this image, the composer recalls three vignettes from Mary's life and renders musical images of her holding the infant Christ, the living Christ and the crucified Christ.  The musical result, scored for mixed voices, piano, violin obbligato and soprano soloist is every bit as striking as its inspired master.  For Christmas candlelight observances, Marian festivals, or during Holy Week, this gripping work is conceived for those choirs whose mission is to communicate to their congregation with meaning and artistry.  Astonishing!