Hlonolofatsa

When a choir wants to send the congregation out with pure, uncontainable joy, "Hlonolofatsa" is often the perfect choice. Made globally famous by the Soweto Gospel Choir, this vibrant South African praise song has found a welcoming home in Nigerian parishes. Sung in Sesotho, the lyrics are a simple, rhythmic prayer for blessing, asking God to bless us in the name of the Father. We often use it during the Recessional or at festive celebrations where the choir and the people can sway to its infectious beat.

The arrangement builds beautifully from a quiet, humming introduction—"Iyo o hm"—into a spirited, full-voiced choral celebration. The driving, repetitive verses make it easy for the assembly to catch the spirit of the piece, even if they are singing the language for the first time. It is a song that demands energy, usually coming alive with traditional drums and percussion, bringing a profound sense of African joy to the end of a Mass.