Odo Agutan

When the choir begins "Ọdọ Agutan," a profound stillness often settles over the congregation. This Yoruba setting of the Agnus Dei by Okoli Kingsley captures the quiet reverence of the fraction rite, the moment just before Holy Communion when the bread is broken. The words are a direct plea for mercy and peace—"Iwọ lo mu ẹṣẹ aiye lọ" (You take away the sins of the world).

The arrangement uses a gentle, flowing harmonic structure that allows the natural cadence of the language to lead the melody. The repeated petition "ṣaanu fun wa" (have mercy on us) builds a sense of communal prayer, drawing everyone in the pews into a shared moment of reflection.

As the piece transitions into its final invocation, "fun wa ni alafia" (grant us peace), the music softens, leaving a lingering sense of calm. It is a grounding piece for any choir to sing, perfectly preparing the hearts of the faithful to approach the altar.