Noyeamwan mwen Itohan

"Noyeamwan mwen Itohan" is a deeply reverent setting of the Kyrie in the Edo language. Composed by Vincent I. Ihaza, this piece carries the solemn, pleading weight of the Penitential Rite, inviting the congregation to seek God's mercy at the very beginning of the Mass. The word "Itohan" speaks of a profound, heartfelt cry for pity and grace.

The arrangement follows the traditional call-and-response structure of the rite. A male cantor introduces the opening plea, "Noyeamwan mwen Itohan" (Lord, have mercy), before the full choir enters to echo the prayer. The middle section, "Kristi, mwen Itohan" (Christ, have mercy), shifts the texture, allowing the voices to carry the supplication before returning to the final, unified cry for the Lord's mercy. It is a moving, grounding piece for any choir preparing the hearts of the faithful for the Liturgy of the Word.