A SACRIFICE OF PRAISE

"A Sacrifice of Praise" is one of those deeply familiar melodies that instantly draws a congregation into the spirit of the Mass. Arranged here in solfa notation by Njoku Christopher, this piece takes a well-loved chorus and expands it beautifully for the liturgy. The score specifically notes its use for the Consecration, though its themes make it a natural and moving choice for the Offertory procession as well.

What makes this arrangement special is how the verses build the offering. We begin with the traditional "sacrifice of praise," but the subsequent verses ground the hymn in the physical gifts of the Eucharist—bringing an offering of bread and wine to the altar. By the third verse, the scope widens outward, inviting the choir and congregation to lift up "our families and friends," and finally, "our nation and our world."

Singing this piece feels like gathering up everything we have and are, and carrying it down the aisle. The steady, walking pace of the music gives the choir a solid foundation to lead the people in thanksgiving, culminating in the unifying refrain where all voices join to offer their sacrifice of praise.