Page 4 - Susquehanna Chorale - Spring 2023 Newsletter

Robert and Christine Stowman at their wedding and late in their long marriage
Cardinalis Nobis Pacem
According to the composer, Dr. William Stowman, Professor
of Trumpet and chair of the Department of Music at
Messiah University, Cardinalis Nobis Pacem is essentially an imaginary conversation between his elderly mother, Christine, and her deceased husband, Robert Stowman.
“I have had the luxury of caring for both of my parents in their later years,” Stowman has written. “As anyone who has done this knows, it isn’t easy. But it is also incredibly fulfilling to be able to do so.
“I look on as my mom still misses my dad every day. I think about the ways she talks about him, longs for his presence, and remembers every single thing he ever did for her. I think about the way he might be looking back at her, letting her know everything will be OK, and that they will be reunited.”
“The presence of cardinals has brought peace to me and my mom since my dad’s passing. The old adage “When cardinals appear, angels are near” is evident every time my mom sees one. Sometimes she even says my dad’s name when one [visits] the feeder on her porch.”
CARDINALIS NOBIS PACEM (text and music by William Stowman)
Oh the years move on without you here.
And the tears flow on since you’re not near.
I long for the day when I will see your smiling face.
Until then I’ll wait in this, our place.
I look back at you with thankful heart.
All the time we had ‘til death did part.
I long for the day when I will see your smiling face,
Until then I’ll wait in this glorious space.
Do not wish your time to pass so quickly,
I remain right by your side.
Wings of red bring to you peace and solace,
Angels present day and night.
Like, Follow & Share @ Susquehanna.Chorale
The Susquehanna Chorale and our Youth Choirs are on Social Media! Follow us for the latest news and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage on our upcoming projects and performances!
Susquehanna Chorale - Social Media: @Susquehanna.Chorale
Susquehanna Chorale
*Youth Choirs* - Social Media: @SusquehannaChorale.YouthChoirs