LORD HAVE MERCY

When the choir begins the Mass with Azuine-Uche Bruno’s "Lord Have Mercy," the atmosphere in the church immediately shifts to one of quiet reflection. Set at a gentle Andante pace, the melody avoids any rushed or overly dramatic flourishes. Instead, it offers a steady, walking rhythm that feels like a genuine, personal approach to the altar. The soprano line leads with a simple, repeating plea—"Lord have mercy, have mercy, have mercy"—while the lower voices provide a warm, grounding response.

During the Penitential Rite, this setting gives the congregation a moment to truly pause and prepare their hearts for the liturgy. The repetition in the voices creates a layered, echoing effect, mirroring the way a community brings its collective shortcomings before God. It is a humble opening to the Mass, perfectly capturing the spirit of the composer's own prayer printed at the bottom of the score, reminding us that we approach the altar not with pride, but with a quiet reliance on grace.