My Stronghold

When a choir needs a lively, heartfelt song of thanksgiving, Fr. Celestine Ezeoke’s "My Stronghold" is a wonderful choice. The piece opens with a vibrant chorus declaring God as a stronghold, Saviour, and advocate. It captures that specific feeling of looking back at life and realizing every good thing—wisdom, health, family, and freedom—comes entirely from above. The verses are built as simple, direct litanies of thanks, making it incredibly easy for a congregation to catch the melody, join in, and make the prayer their own.

Because of its joyful gratitude, choirs often bring this out during the Offertory procession or as a thanksgiving hymn after Communion. The refrain carries a beautiful, grounding reminder of humility: "Never let I give the glory to myself, for I'm nothing without You." It is the kind of song that naturally gets the whole church swaying, lifting their voices in genuine appreciation for God's grace and protection.