Agnus Dei (Urhobo)

When the time comes for the breaking of the bread, a setting like this Urhobo Agnus Dei brings a deep sense of reverence to the sanctuary. Composed by Ozioko Domnik, the piece is marked to be sung "Adagio with feeling," and you can hear that gentle, pleading quality right from the opening notes. It allows the choir to lead the congregation in that final, quiet moment of preparation before Communion.

Singing "Omogode r'Oghene," the harmony moves with a steady, solemn grace. The voices unite in asking the Lord who takes away the sins of the world to have mercy on us. By the time we reach the third invocation, the prayer shifts to a restful plea for peace, "vwo fuoma k'avware." It is a simple but profoundly moving setting that anchors the soul in the liturgy.