TAKE AND SANCTIFY

When the time comes for the presentation of gifts, a choir needs a piece that gathers the prayers of the whole congregation. Jude Nnam’s "Take and Sanctify" does exactly this. It is a gentle, steady Offertory hymn that turns the physical procession of bread and wine into a moment of profound personal offering. The melody carries a quiet earnestness, allowing the voices to blend smoothly as they ask God to receive and bless what is brought to the altar.

The true strength of this piece lies in its verses. Moving step by step through "all that I have," "all that I need," and finally "all that I dream," the lyrics guide singers to surrender their past, present, and future. In the choir loft, we often remind ourselves that we are not just singing notes here; we are leading a prayer of total self-giving. It is a deeply moving choice for Sunday Mass, helping everyone present to place their own lives alongside the gifts being prepared.