GLORIA

When the Penitential Rite concludes and the priest intones the opening notes of the Gloria, the atmosphere in the church shifts to pure celebration. This setting by Sir Jude Nnam, composed in October 1997, captures that exact feeling of joyful praise. Written entirely in Latin, it carries the traditional words of the angelic hymn first sung over the fields of Bethlehem, bringing a bright and rhythmic energy to the introductory rites of the Mass.

Nnam structures the piece with a lively, recurring "Gloria in excelsis Deo" refrain that anchors the entire composition. Between these joyful outbursts, the choir takes up four distinct verses. The sopranos and altos lead the way through the ancient text, moving from the adoration of God the Father in the first two verses to the pleas for mercy addressed to the Lamb of God in the third.

For a choir, mastering a Latin Mass part like this brings a deep sense of connection to the universal Church. The final verse builds up to a triumphant "Cum Sancto Spiritu" before resolving into a resounding "Amen." It is a wonderful choice for festive Sundays, Easter, and Christmas, giving the voices in the loft a chance to truly lead the congregation in giving glory to God in the highest.