OLUWA SANUFUNWA

"Oluwa Sanufunwa" is a solemn and deeply reverent setting of the Kyrie, sung in Yoruba. Composed by Chaninomi Joseph and Odum Edward, the piece is marked *Largo*, guiding the choir to take a slow, deliberate pace that perfectly matches the pleading nature of the Penitential Rite.

The lyrics expand on the traditional "Lord, have mercy" by adding heartfelt petitions like "gbọrọ waye wo, a wa n bẹ o" (hear our cry, we beg you) and "dariji wa o" (forgive us). During Mass, this piece allows the congregation to pause and reflect, bringing a profound sense of humility and cultural warmth to the opening rites.