“Ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est” or it’s alternate translation “Ubi caritas est vera” are words you’ve likely heard sung during mass this weekend, but what do they mean and what are their importance in Catholic music tradition? The text for Ubi Caritas is thought to have been written by Saint Paulinus II in 796 A.D., and is as follows:

There are many musical settings of this text, ranging from the traditional Gregorian chant setting still in use in places like the Vatican to the contemporary settings you may have heard at St. Angela by Bob Hurd or Ola Gjeilo. The song is a call to humble ourselves and seek God where he may be found, in charity and love. It is an anthem that reminds us that God is present in our acts of service and charity, and any time we show love to one another. 

It’s no coincidence that this song has been used for centuries as an antiphon to be sung during the Washing of Feet on Holy Thursday. It is a song that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of servanthood that Jesus displayed by washing the feet of His disciples, and His challenge to us to do the same. 

In these challenging times, let us reflect on what the words “Ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est” mean in our lives. Where can we meet our Lord’s challenge and bring about His presence through our own acts of service, charity, and love?