Kyrie Eleison- ONDU CHEJUMOMI (Igala lingua)

This simple, reverent setting of the Kyrie eleison brings the ancient penitential cry into the Igala language. Titled "Ondu Chejumomi" (Lord, have mercy), the piece is structured to lead the congregation through the traditional threefold invocation at the beginning of Mass.

In the choir loft, this piece serves as a gentle, grounding start to the liturgy. The harmony parts are written to support the solemnity of the Penitential Rite, moving from "Ondu chejumomi" (Lord, have mercy) to "Kristi chejumomi" (Christ, have mercy) and back again. It is a beautiful example of how indigenous languages carry the universal prayers of the Church, allowing the faithful to ask for God's mercy in the words of their own home.