PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL

Ezeigwe Chidi and Emma-ndi-nso have crafted a versatile set of responses for the intercessions during Mass. Titled simply "Prayer of the Faithful," this short sheet offers choirs three distinct ways to lead the congregation in their petitions, moving seamlessly across three different languages.

The score opens with the classic Latin plea, "Domine, exaudi orationem nostram" (Lord, hear our prayer), carrying a sense of solemn, universal reverence. It then shifts into a heartfelt Igbo cry—"Onyenwem, Chineke, ụmụ gị chọrọ enyemaka gị Nna bịanụa"—asking God the Father to come to the aid of His children. Finally, it provides a gentle English response, "Let your mercy come to us, that we may live."

Having these three options on a single page is incredibly practical for a choir director. Depending on the primary language of the Mass, the specific feast day, or the overall mood of the liturgy, the choir can choose the response that best fits the moment. It is a simple, effective tool to help the whole church lift their prayers to God as one.