WELCOME SONG

When a parish celebrates its dedication, the choir is tasked with lifting the joy of the entire community into song. "Welcome Song" by A. U. Oramasionwu is exactly that—a grand, tailor-made anthem of greeting and thanksgiving. Written specifically for the dedication of St. Peter the Apostle Parish, the piece bursts with vibrant Igbo praise, calling on God the Father ("Chukwu Nna") and welcoming the gathered faithful with open arms.

The lyrics serve as a roll call of honor and gratitude. After a majestic bass intro and a tenor solo praising God's mighty works, the choir breaks into a joyful "nnọọ nụ" (welcome) to the congregation. The song then specifically greets the chief shepherd, Archbishop Valerian Okeke, the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Celestine Anioforo, and all the religious and parishioners who labored to build the new church. It is a beautiful example of how Nigerian Catholic choirs document parish history and milestones through music.

Musically, the piece flows through different voice parts and textures, moving from solemn prayers for long life ("ọtọlgologo ndụ") to a final, ringing English coda: "Sing praise to the Lord, Amen." It captures the exact feeling of a festive dedication Mass—the incense, the packed pews, and the overwhelming sense of a community finally seeing their holy house consecrated to God.