Missa ad Gentes was commissioned by the Maryknoll Community to celebrate their centenary. One of the most intriguing features of this setting is that the various movements musically represent both Maryknoll's United States heritage and the diverse cultures in which Maryknoll missioners serve. Some of the cultural influences represented include Portuguese, Hispanic, Russian, and Asian. The Eucharistic Acclamations can be done with organ, brass quintet, and timpani, intensifying an already sumptuous setting. It is my hope that the Missa ad Gentes will assist English-speaking Roman Rite Catholics to worship with new liturgical texts, faithful to their heritage but enriched by the great diversity of languages and cultures that make up the Church Catholic. Brass quintet, timpani, flute and oboe parts are optional.