PRAISE TO YOU O CHRIST!

During the solemn season of Lent, our joyful Alleluias are put away, replaced by acclamations that draw our focus to the cross and the kingship of Jesus. "Praise To You O Christ" is a straightforward, reverent setting of the Lenten Gospel Acclamation, giving choirs a fitting way to herald the Gospel reading before the priest or deacon steps up to the ambo.

The composer, Solomon Stephen Fakarau, provides the acclamation in two languages on this single sheet: English and Hausa. The English section rings out with the familiar "Praise to you O Christ, King of eternal glory," set to a gentle, steady melody that the whole congregation can easily pick up. The Hausa setting, "Yabo Ta Tabbata A Gareka," carries the exact same liturgical text and weight, offering a wonderful option for bilingual Masses or parishes in Northern Nigeria.

Having both versions side-by-side is incredibly useful for a choir director planning out the weeks of Lent. The four-part harmony is accessible and moves with a quiet dignity. It is a humble but powerful piece of service music that helps the congregation prepare their hearts for the Word of God during the penitential season.