PAY ATTENTION AND LISTEN!

"Pay Attention and Listen!" is a short, engaging choral piece by Jude Nnam designed to be sung just before the homily. In many Nigerian Catholic parishes, the transition from the Gospel reading to the priest's sermon is a moment that calls for the congregation to settle, quiet down, and focus. This song serves exactly that purpose, gently reminding the faithful in the pews to open their minds and hearts to the message about to be shared.

The lyrics are direct and practical, delivering a clear message: "When the priest is preaching, the Lord is talking." It frames the homily not just as an ordinary speech, but as a vital moment where the soul's weakness can be strengthened through a better understanding of the Bible. The melody is straightforward and earnest, moving with a steady rhythm that naturally draws the ear. For a choir director, it is an excellent, brief call to attention to lead from the choir loft, preparing the ground for the Word of God before the congregation sits to listen.