KYRIE Ebealen Tohanmhan Len (Esan) O.O.M (XVIII)

"Ebealen Tohanmhan Len" is a reverent and deeply moving setting of the Kyrie in the Esan language. Sung during the Penitential Rite at the beginning of Mass, this piece invites the congregation into a space of quiet reflection and sincere petition for God's mercy. The slow, Adagio tempo allows the weight of the words to settle over the church, setting a solemn tone before the joy of the Gloria.

Arranged for a four-part choir, the composition weaves the traditional plea for mercy into a gentle choral texture. While the alto line calls out to Christ ("O Kristi"), the soprano carries the main melody with the continuous, steady repetition of "Ebealen tohanmhan" (Lord, have mercy). It is a wonderful choice for choirs looking to bring an indigenous Nigerian language into the solemn opening moments of the liturgy, grounding the universal prayer of the Church in local expression.