NOS AUTEM

When the choir begins to sing "Nos Autem," a profound shift happens in the church. This ancient Latin chant serves as the traditional Entrance Antiphon for the Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday, as well as the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. The opening words translate to a powerful declaration: "But we must glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." It immediately draws the congregation into the solemn mystery of the Lord's Passion, setting the tone for the sacred Triduum.

This particular solfa transcription adapts the flowing, unmetered feel of Gregorian chant into a format that Nigerian choirs can easily learn and direct. The antiphon focuses our attention entirely on the cross as the source of salvation, life, and resurrection. Following the antiphon, the verses are drawn from Psalm 67 ("Deus misereatur nostri"), asking for God's mercy and blessing so that His ways may be known on earth.

Singing this piece requires a smooth, connected phrasing to capture the reverent spirit of the original chant. It is a wonderful way to ground the liturgy in the universal tradition of the Church, inviting everyone in the pews to enter into Holy Week with a spirit of deep reflection and awe.