In the Agnus Dei and Lux aeterna, Rutter combines the liturgical Latin text with English biblical verses.

The first performance of the complete work was at Lovers' Lane United Methodist Church, Dallas, Texas, on 13 October 1985.

[2] He conducted the first performance on 13 October 1985 at Lovers' Lane United Methodist Church, Dallas, Texas, where the director of Music Allen Pote prepared the Sanctuary Choir and orchestra.

Movements 1, 2, 4, and 7 had been performed on 14 March 1985 at Fremont Presbyterian Church, Sacramento, California, by the Sanctuary Choir and ensemble, prepared by Mel Olson and also conducted by the composer.

[3] The following table shows the title, Tempo marking, voices, time, key and text sources for the seven movements.

The Latin text is contrasted with another biblical passage, "Man that is born of a woman hath but a short time to live" from the Book of Job.

After an instrumental interlude which quotes a melody associated with Easter, the voices sing very softly "I am the resurrection and the life", from the Book of John.

It mentions the valley of the shadow of death, but is an expression of trust in God and hope for dwelling in his house forever.

[10] The seventh movement includes words from the 1662 Book of Common Prayer Burial Service ("I heard a voice from heaven...") and the communion chant from Requiem (Lux aeterna).