EYEN ERONG ABASI

When the choir begins "Eyen Erong Abasi," a deep sense of reverence settles over the congregation. This is the Agnus Dei, sung during the fraction rite just before Communion. In Efik and Ibibio speaking parishes, these words carry a profound weight as we recognize Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world ("emi emende mmidioknkpo ererimbot efep").

Rev. Fr. S.J. Udoh’s arrangement captures the solemn, pleading nature of this moment in the Mass. The repeated cries of "tua nyin mbom" (have mercy on us) in the first invocation allow the voices to layer and swell, creating a heartfelt petition from the choir loft. It is a moment of collective humility, where the music helps the faithful prepare their hearts to receive the Eucharist.

As the piece draws to a close, the final invocation shifts the prayer to "no nyin emem" — grant us peace. The gentle resolution of the harmony here brings a quiet comfort, perfectly setting the tone for the Communion procession that follows. It is a simple, prayerful setting that grounds the liturgy in local language and deep devotion.