FATHER ALL POWERFUL

"Father All Powerful" by Sir Jude Nnam is a deeply reverent Eucharistic hymn that draws its opening words straight from the familiar Preface of the Mass. When the choir begins the refrain—"Father all powerful and ever-living God, we do well always and everywhere to give you thanks"—it immediately grounds the congregation in the great prayer of thanksgiving that leads into the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

The verses walk us through the mystery of the Last Supper and the ongoing gift of Communion. Singing about Jesus sitting at the table with His apostles and offering Himself as the spotless Lamb of God makes this piece especially fitting for Holy Thursday, as well as for the Offertory or Communion procession on any Sunday. It reminds the faithful of exactly what is happening on the altar.

Musically, the arrangement is gentle but firm, carrying a sense of awe. The harmony supports the solemnity of the text, allowing the choir to lead the parish in reflecting on the "memorial of His passion." It is a wonderful choice for moments when the church needs to quiet down and focus on the profound sacrament of the Eucharist, inviting everyone to be fed at the Lord's table.