Oyi onyiero owo

When we prepare for Communion, the Agnus Dei grounds the congregation in a moment of profound reverence. "Oyi onyiero owo" is a vibrant setting of the Lamb of God in the Yala language, composed by Elue-Okolo Pascal. It brings a deeply indigenous and prayerful spirit to the breaking of the bread, allowing the choir to lead the faithful in this ancient plea for mercy and peace.

The melody is marked "Lively," giving the traditional supplication a rhythmic, forward-moving energy. As the voices weave through the familiar structure of the prayer, the natural cadence of the Yala words shapes the musical phrasing. It is a wonderful choice for choirs looking to enrich their Mass repertoire with local languages, offering a fresh but deeply rooted expression of faith just before the congregation approaches the altar.