EDISANA (Sanctus in Efik)

When the preface concludes and the congregation kneels for the Eucharistic Prayer, the choir leads the people in the great hymn of heaven. "Edisana" is a reverent Efik setting of the Sanctus, composed by Christian Umeh. It captures the profound mystery of the moment we sing "Holy, Holy, Holy" before the altar.

The piece opens with a majestic, measured declaration—"Edisana, edisana, edisana Obong Abasi mm'udim" (Holy, holy, holy Lord God of hosts)—building a sense of awe as heaven and earth unite in praise. As the text moves into the Hosanna, the tempo lifts into a joyful, rhythmic Allegretto. The voices weave together to proclaim "Hosana ke ata enyong" (Hosanna in the highest), bringing a bright, celebratory energy to the blessing of Him who comes in the name of the Lord.

For choirs singing in Efik-speaking parishes or those looking to bring the sounds of the South-South into their liturgy, this arrangement offers a deeply prayerful experience. It balances the solemnity of the consecration with the uplifting joy of the Hosanna, making it a wonderful choice for Sunday Mass.