Rejoice! the Lord is King!

When the choir strikes up "Rejoice! the Lord is King!", a wave of pure, triumphant energy sweeps through the church. Set to the majestic "Gopsal" tune by G. F. Handel, this classic hymn is a staple in Nigerian parishes, especially on the Feast of Christ the King or during grand festive Masses. The soaring melody and driving rhythm make it a joy to sing, demanding full voices from the choir loft and an eager response from the congregation.

The words, penned by Charles Wesley, call us to lift our hearts and voices in absolute confidence. Singing "Jesus, the Saviour, reigns" reminds us of the unshakable truth of God's sovereignty, no matter what challenges we face. It is a hymn of victory, perfectly suited for a powerful recessional that sends the faithful out into the world with their heads held high.

Rehearsing this piece is always an exercise in breath control and joyful expression. The repeating refrain—"Lift up your heart, lift up your voice; Rejoice, again I say, rejoice"—builds in intensity with each verse. By the time the choir reaches the final stanza, proclaiming that He sits at God's right hand, the harmony swells, leaving everyone in the pews uplifted and ready to carry that royal joy home.