Ina Ina

"Ina Ina" and "Omala Eyi Ojo" bring the solemn prayers of the Eucharistic liturgy into the vibrant Igala language. Composed by Abimaje Austine, these two movements—the Sanctus from his Mass of Joy and the Agnus Dei from his Mass of Hope—offer choirs a deeply rooted way to lead the congregation through the peak moments of the Mass.

The Sanctus opens with a bright, rhythmic declaration of God's glory ("Ina chei ọjọ ondu"), building naturally into the joyful, repeating Hosanna refrain ("Egahi ki da ta te"). When the liturgy moves to the breaking of the bread, the Agnus Dei shifts the mood. The choir sings a pleading, reverent call to the Lamb of God, repeating the requests for mercy ("cheju mo mi wa") and peace ("dẹ bẹ bọ wñ wa") across the voice parts.

Singing the Mass parts in the mother tongue always adds a special warmth to the celebration. This solfa arrangement gives the choir loft a clear, engaging harmony that lifts the spirit of the whole church, making the ancient prayers feel immediate and close to home.