Gayyatar Ubangiji

"Gayyatar Ubangiji" translates to "The Lord's Invitation," and Jacob Enenche Okwori’s composition captures exactly that—a gentle, persistent call to the Eucharistic table. Sung in Hausa, the lyrics speak in the voice of Christ calling out to His children and friends ("yarana," "abokaina") to come and receive the food and water of life. It is a deeply intimate text, reminding the congregation that the invitation to Communion is personal and full of warmth.

As a Communion motet, the piece unfolds beautifully during the procession to the altar. The Cantor or Soprano line leads the narrative, urging the faithful to eat His body and drink His blood to find true strength ("karfi"), healing ("lafiya"), and rest ("hutu"). The choir’s repeating responses create a sense of gathering, echoing the way a community comes forward together to share in the "food of angels" ("abincin mala'iku").

For a choir preparing this piece, the focus is on the tenderness of the invitation. The music does not demand; it welcomes. When the voices blend on the repeated "Ku zo, ku zo" (Come, come), it should feel like open arms, offering the weary a place of spiritual nourishment and peace at the Lord's table.