THAT WE MAY BE ONE IN CHRIST

When a choir sings "That We May Be One In Christ," the message of unity is built right into the languages of the people. Theodore Ugwa composed this piece with a striking, multilingual call to worship. Right before the chorus, the sopranos lead an invitation to the altar using phrases from across Nigeria: "Bia" in Igbo, "Dan Allah zo" in Hausa, "Ẹ jẹ́ ká lọ" in Yoruba, "Mzamber va" in Tiv, and "mbok di" in Efik. It is a moving moment that physically demonstrates the lyric, "with every nation, tongue and race, we celebrate the Eucharist."

The piece flows with a gentle, steady reverence perfectly suited for Communion. The opening lines remind the congregation of Christ's prayer for His Church and His promise of eternal life for those who receive His Body and Blood. As the voices merge into the main chorus, the harmony swells to reflect the gathering of diverse lands and traditions.

For a choir, this is a deeply meaningful selection for the Communion procession. It reminds everyone in the pews that despite our different backgrounds and native tongues, the Eucharist is the single bond that ties us together. Singing those familiar indigenous phrases right alongside the English text brings the mystery of the altar close to home.