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Scriptural Foundation The text of “Salvation and Righteousness” is drawn from Isaiah 45:8 and Hosea 6:3. The phrase, “Rain down, you heavens,” carries significance in both its literal and spiritual contexts. Literal and Spiritual Meaning Rain is described in Scripture as a blessing bestowed by God, with the earth receiving it accordingly. Similarly, from a spiritual perspective, God opens an individual's heart to salvation. When salvation is granted, righteousness accompanies it, and both manifest together. Thus, as salvation is given, righteousness and salvation are united, illustrating the physical and spiritual blessings referenced in biblical texts. Musical Elements The composition begins with a gentle and calming cello motive. This musical theme sets the tone for the piece and continues to be woven throughout, providing a sense of unity and tranquility. Musical Progression and Unity As the composition develops, the music intensifies, reflecting the union of salvation and righteousness. This gradual build in the musical narrative mirrors the spiritual convergence described in the scriptural foundations, where salvation and righteousness are intertwined. The musical elements grow in complexity and volume, symbolizing the coming together of these two themes, ultimately providing a sense of completeness and fulfillment within the piece.

Psalms 84:1-4 Yearning for God's Presence The Scripture from Psalms 84:1-4 includes the heartfelt line, “My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the Lord.” This powerful expression of desire resonates deeply with me. It speaks to a profound yearning for closeness and intimacy with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Sometimes, we find ourselves longing to create a special place for Jesus within our hearts—a true “dwelling place.” This desire reflects a hope to experience a meaningful, personal relationship with Him, where His presence fills and transforms us from within. Like the Psalmist said in this Psalms “Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at the altars, of, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.” This piece traces a musical journey toward the heart of God, beginning with a simple tenor melody and atonal voices to evoke feeling lost, then transitioning to tonal harmonies that reflect intimacy in God's presence. "Even the Sparrow" was "recorded 'live' at Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN. "The First Readings Project - J. David Moore, Conductor." Music Composed by Denice Rippentrop Video Produced by Clay Ashworth

Jonah’s Prayer Scripture Reference: Jonah 2:2-9 God’s Response to Repentance God always responds to genuine repentance. When Jonah was in a place of deep distress, he earnestly turned to God. This moment demonstrates the importance and power of true repentance. Jonah’s prayer, spoken from the depths of the fish’s belly, reached God, who listened and answered him. Jonah realized that defying God's commands was like idolatry. By turning away from God, Jonah understood that he was elevating his own desires above God’s will, which is at the core of idolatry. The music accompanying Jonah’s prayer is somber, reflecting a broken heart. However, the music becomes uplifting when the phrase “The victory belongs to the Lord” is sung.” “Jonah’s Prayer” was recorded ‘live’ at Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN, by “The First Readings Project,” J. David Moore, conductor. Music Composed by Denice Rippentrop Video Produced by Clay Ashworth

"All‑Powerful Creator God" for SATB chorus and strings, sets Psalm 63:1–4 and opens with the name Elohim—“Creator God.” The music grows from quiet simplicity into fuller textures, reflecting the divine power to bring forth creation from nothing. As voices and strings intertwine, the work evokes order emerging from chaos and light breaking into darkness. Throughout, the name Elohim resounds as a reminder of God’s strength, majesty, and creative presence. "All-Powerful Creator God" was recorded 'live' at Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN, by "The First Readings Project," J. David Moore, Conductor. Composed by Denice Rippentrop Video Produced by Clay Ashworth

"Salvation's Light" was "recorded 'live' at Grace Episcopal Church by The First Readings Project - J. David Moore, Conductor, Minneapolis, MN" Music Composed by Denice Rippentrop Video Prodiced by Clayton Ashworth

"Come, Let Us Sing" was "recorded 'live' at Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN, performed by "The First Readings Project - J. David Moore, Conductor." Music Composed by Denice Rippentrop Video Produced by Clayton Ashworth

AT THE NAME OF JESUS - Psalms 86:9-12, Phils. 2:10-11 I aspired to craft a choral composition that resonates through the ages, echoing in hearts until the glorious return of Jesus the Christ. In my quest for the perfect text, I sought words that profoundly express His greatness and declare that He alone deserves all adoration and praise. I recalled Psalms 86:9-12, a passage I've cherished and memorized over the years, which embodies this divine reverence. This contemplation then led me to Philippians 2:10-11, where the profound declaration that every knee shall bow and every tongue confess the majesty of God illuminated my path. "At the Name of Jesus" was recorded 'live' at Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN, by "The First First Readings Project," J. David Moore, Conductor. Composed by Denice Rippentrop Video Produced by Clay Ashworth

"The Sea Stays Within Its Shores" - Job 7:12, D.R. - TTBB Chorus with Piano - recorded 'live' at Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN - "The First Readings Project" - J. David Moore, Conductor. Matthew Valverde - Tenor Soloist, Celeste Marie Johnson, Pianist. Video Produced by Clay Ashworth

"God's Great Mercy" was "recorded 'live' at Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN, performed by "The First Readings Project - J. David Moore, conductor." Written and Composed by Denice Rippentrop Video Produced by Clay Ashworth

"People, Ponder the Cross was recorded by The Peter Hendrickson Singers, Dr. Peter Hendrickson, Conductor, Minneapolis, MN. Recorded in 1992, this piece continues to be heard. Video Produced by Clayton Ashworth

The First Readings Project, J. David Moore, Conductor recorded 'live' "Yahweh, The Most High" at the Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN. The piece is for a SATB Chorus with two trumpets.

"The Lord Is My Shepherd" was recorded 'live' at Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN, "The First Readings Project - J. David Moore, Conductor." Text - Psalms 23

"Sun of Righteousness" was recorded 'live' at Grace Episcopal Church, Minneapolis, MN." "The First Readings Project - J. David Moore. conductor." The text - Malachi 4:2 (WEB),2 Samuel 23:4 (NKJV). "Sun of Righteousness" is for a SATB Chorus with Horn in F, Violin I & II, and Cello.

"As Jesu Born in Mary's Womb: - Words and Music by Denice Rippentrop - SATB Chorus with Organ. Recorded by "The Star Chorale", Roxanne Litchfield, Conductor, St. Paul, MN. Video produced by Clay Ashworth.

"Now Turn North" - Deuteronomy 2:1-3 - SATB Chorus with Two Bb Clarinets - Recorded by "The First Readings Project", J. David Moore, Conductor, Minneapolis, MM. Video produced by Clay Ashworth.