EKWEM N'OTU CHINEKE (I BELIEVE IN ONE GOD)

When the homily concludes and the congregation stands to profess the faith, "Ekwem n'otu Chineke" grounds the Mass in ancient truth. Rev. Fr. Okwy Tony Umeh’s setting of the Creed in Igbo brings a unique, reverent texture to this moment. Instead of a standard strophic hymn, the arrangement calls for the choir to hum the main chorus while a cantor or designated voice recites the articles of faith, creating a deeply meditative atmosphere in the church.

This style of chanting the verses over a sustained harmony allows the heavy, theological words of the Creed to be heard clearly without rushing. As the cantor proclaims the mysteries of the incarnation, crucifixion, and resurrection, the choir provides a warm, continuous bed of sound. The bass voice then cues the return of the sung chorus, drawing everyone back into the shared declaration.

It is a very natural way to handle a long liturgical text. By the time the final "Amen" section arrives, the entire choir joins in full voice, sealing the profession of faith. For a choir, mastering the balance between the soft, supportive humming and the confident returns of the chorus makes this piece a rewarding addition to Sunday worship.