OCEAN OF MERCY

"Ocean of Mercy" is a gentle, pleading Offertory hymn that captures the solemnity of the preparation of the gifts. Composed by Emmanuel Atuanya—and dedicated on the manuscript to Mary, "Ocean Star"—the song's actual sung text focuses entirely on the altar. It draws a direct line between the congregation's offerings and the ancient, pleasing sacrifices of the Old Testament, asking God to accept the gifts "from the hands of your priest, like the sacrifice of Abel."

The verses walk the choir and congregation through the specific elements of the Eucharistic offering. Moving from the general "gifts we give" to the specific "bread we lift up" and "wine in chalice," the hymn beautifully intertwines the physical offerings with a spiritual plea for blessing and protection. It is an excellent choice for the Offertory procession, giving the choir a prayerful, repetitive refrain that helps center the congregation as the altar is prepared.