This original setting of the ancient prayer employs the familiar Latin text on Gabriel's annunciation to Mary that she is to be the mother of the Messiah. A placid E-flat major modality sets a tone of serenity and humility. This tranquility is short-lived, however, as the work reaches a high point on the very next phrase, "Mater Dei, ora pro nobis peccatoribus" ("Mother of God, pray for us sinners"), where unexpected chromaticisms abruptly transform the mood from tranquil adoration to impassioned pleading.