ANYI ABIAWO

"Anyị abịawo" translates to "We have come," and this piece by Stanley S.A. Anih is a steady, reverent Offertory hymn that captures the spirit of bringing gifts to the altar. From the very first notes, the choir announces their arrival and intention to offer a holy sacrifice. It is a song of humble petition, asking God to accept the congregation's offerings just as He accepted the ancient sacrifices of Abel and Melchizedek.

When we sing this during the preparation of the gifts, the gentle walking tempo gives the congregation a natural rhythm for the Offertory procession. The harmony parts weave together naturally, especially in the second verse where the lower voices introduce the bread and wine before the sopranos enter, reminding us that everything we bring is simply a return of what God has already given us.

The final section builds into a heartfelt prayer for blessing. As the voices unite to sing "Oh Dinwenụm anyị n'ayọzi Gị" (Oh our Lord, we beg you), the piece transforms from a statement of giving into a plea for God to bless both the gifts and the people who bring them. It is a deeply fulfilling choral piece to rehearse and sing, bringing a sense of solemn joy to the Sunday liturgy.