DEDE (ARISE)

"Dede (Arise)" is a vibrant Entrance Hymn composed by Clinton Ehimare E., setting a joyful call to worship in the Oye-Ekiti dialect of Yoruba. Written for the St. Cecilia Choir at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), the song opens the liturgy with an energetic invitation to stand and give praise. From the opening cantor's call to the bright, rhythmic choral responses, the music captures the anticipation and reverence of a community gathering for Mass.

The lyrics center on themes of adoration and thanksgiving, urging the faithful to bow before Jesus and honor the Holy Trinity. By drawing on the distinct sounds and vocabulary of the Oye-Ekiti dialect, the piece brings a deep sense of local identity into the sanctuary. It is a wonderful example of how indigenous languages breathe life into Catholic worship, turning the procession to the altar into a truly shared, cultural celebration of faith.