Hymn 16. Lord God Almighty

"Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty" is one of the most universally recognized hymns of adoration, sung by congregations and choirs to honor the mystery of the Holy Trinity. With its majestic tune, Nicaea, the music builds a sense of profound reverence. The lyrics draw heavily from the Book of Revelation, painting a vivid picture of saints, cherubim, and seraphim casting down their golden crowns around a glassy sea.

In Nigerian Catholic parishes, this hymn is a staple for Trinity Sunday, but it also finds a natural home as an entrance or recessional hymn on ordinary Sundays. The steady, marching rhythm of the verses gives the choir and congregation a unified voice, rising together "early in the morning" to offer praise. The repetition of "Holy, holy, holy" in every stanza reinforces the unapproachable light and perfection of God, reminding singers that even "though the darkness hide Thee," His glory remains absolute.

What makes this piece so enduring in the choir loft is its four-part harmony, which allows the soprano melody to soar while the alto, tenor, and bass lines provide a thick, grounded foundation. Singing "God in three persons, Blessed Trinity" at the close of the first and fourth verses brings a deep sense of theological completion and communal faith to the liturgy.