Èdùmàrè sè nínú ria

When the choir processes in and the opening rites begin, the Kyrie sets the spiritual tone for the entire Mass. "Èdùmàrè sè nínú ria" is a reverent setting of the "Lord, have mercy" prayer, sung in the Ekiti dialect of the Yoruba language. Written by Clinton Ehimare, the piece moves with a slow, deliberate grace—marked *Lento* on the score—that captures the pleading nature of the Penitential Rite.

For a choir, this composition offers a wonderful opportunity to sing in tight, homophonic harmony. The voices move together through the familiar petition, calling on Èdùmàrè (God) and Kristi (Christ) for mercy. Because the parts align so closely, directors can focus their singers on blending their tones and shaping the dynamics, especially as the piece slows down slightly at the end with a gentle *poco ritardando*.

Singing the Mass parts in local dialects brings the liturgy closer to home for the congregation. This Ekiti Kyrie feels deeply grounded and sincere, allowing the faithful to enter into the mystery of the Mass with a quiet, reflective spirit before the joy of the Gloria breaks through.