Ezumike Ebebe

"Ezumike Ebebe" is a deeply reverent Igbo setting of the *Requiem Aeternam*, serving as the Entrance Hymn (Ukwe Mbata) for a Catholic funeral Mass. The words are a direct translation of the traditional Introit, praying for the Lord to grant eternal rest to the departed and let perpetual light shine upon them. For a choir, singing this piece sets an immediate tone of solemnity and comfort as the procession begins, grounding the congregation in the Church's ancient prayer for the dead.

The verses draw from the Psalms, declaring that praise is due to God in Zion and that all flesh shall come to Him. Following the main entrance antiphon, the score includes a beautiful Gospel Acclamation, "Bianu Ndi Di Ngozi Nke Nnam" (Come, you blessed of my Father). Together, these movements guide the liturgy from a mournful plea for mercy into a hopeful anticipation of the heavenly kingdom prepared from the foundation of the world.