Rejoice In The Lord Always

When a choir needs to lift the spirit of the entire congregation, Patrick Okere’s setting of "Rejoice In The Lord Always" is a perfect choice. Drawing directly from the famous words of Philippians 4:4, this anthem is built on bright, overlapping vocal entries and a driving rhythmic energy. It is the kind of piece that keeps every section of the choir alert, passing the joyful motif back and forth before coming together in full, resonant harmony. We often bring this out for festive Entrance processions or as a rousing Recessional to send the people forth with gladness.

Attached at the end of the score is a contrasting short piece by Goddy Khama, "Jesu, Ihurum Gi N'anya" (Jesus, I love You). Where the first anthem is exuberant and outward-looking, this Igbo hymn is deeply personal and inward. The lyrics are a simple, profound prayer of total surrender: offering all we have to Christ and asking Him to use us according to His will. It fits perfectly into the quiet, reflective moments of the Mass, especially during the Offertory or Communion, allowing the congregation to rest in a moment of gentle devotion.