CREDO

When a choir tackles the Nicene Creed in Latin, the sheer length of the text can be a hurdle. In this setting of the "Credo," composer Emmanuel Atuanya offers a brilliant solution by arranging the ancient prose into a strophic hymn. Instead of a sprawling, through-composed anthem, the profession of faith is divided into five distinct verses that all share the same driving melody, anchored by a simple, repeating refrain of "Credo in unum Deum."

This structure makes the piece incredibly accessible for both the singers and the congregation. As the choir moves through the verses—from the creation of all things visible and invisible, through the incarnation and resurrection, to the final hope of the world to come—the familiar tune provides a steady, confident pulse. It gives the words a marching, resolute feel, exactly what you want when declaring the foundational truths of the faith after the Sunday homily.

Singing the Creed this way brings a wonderful sense of unity to the choir loft. Because the melody repeats, the singers can focus entirely on the rhythm and meaning of the Latin text, leaning into the majestic moments like "et resurrexit tertia die" (and he rose on the third day). It is a practical, deeply effective way to lift up the Church's oldest profession of faith in song.