SANCTUS Mimo L'oluwa

When the congregation reaches the Sanctus during the Eucharistic Prayer, the atmosphere shifts to one of profound reverence. Charles Onwubuya’s "Mimo L'oluwa" captures this exact feeling in Yoruba, offering a majestic and deeply grounded setting of the "Holy, Holy, Holy." Written for a standard choir with cantor parts, it brings a sense of awe to the altar.

The piece opens with a strong, unified chorus declaring God’s holiness. The melody is deliberate and reverent, allowing the voices to blend beautifully as they proclaim the Lord God of hosts. In the first verse, a cantor takes the lead, singing "Orun oun aye kun fun ogo re" (Heaven and earth are full of your glory), while the choir responds with gentle, harmonised "Hosannas." This call-and-response style feels very natural in a Nigerian parish setting, giving the soloist room to sing freely and expressively, just as the composer notes on the score.

The second verse shifts into a joyful, overlapping polyphony of "Hosannas." The voice parts weave together, building up the praise before returning to the main chorus. It is a wonderful choice for choirs looking for a Yoruba Sanctus that balances solemn worship with an uplifting, rhythmic drive.