The Basilican Creed

"The Basilican Creed" is a vibrant, strophic setting of the Profession of Faith, designed to be sung by the entire congregation and choir. Written in English, it transforms the traditional prose of the Nicene Creed into a rhythmic, metrical hymn. The recurring refrain, "I believe in God the Father... one God forever more," serves as a unifying anchor, allowing the assembly to confidently declare their faith together.

In the choir loft, this piece is naturally suited for the Credo during Sunday Mass or solemnities. Instead of chanting the long liturgical text straight through, the composer breaks the articles of faith into six distinct verses. The choir leads the verses—moving from the creation of the world to the life of Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the hope of the world to come—while the congregation can easily join in the memorable refrain.

The handwritten solfa notation reflects a classic Nigerian choral style, with straightforward four-part harmony that is easy to learn and powerful to sing. By setting the Creed to a steady, hymn-like melody, it helps the words of faith take root in the minds of the singers, making the Profession of Faith feel less like a recited list and more like a joyful, shared song of belief.