Responsorial Psalm for the Solemnity Our Lady, Queen of Nigeria - October 1st

This Responsorial Psalm is composed specifically for the Solemnity of Our Lady, Queen of Nigeria, celebrated on October 1st to coincide with the nation's Independence Day. The response, "In his days shall justice flourish, and great peace forever," carries a deep, resonant prayer for the country. It is a piece that speaks directly to the hopes of the congregation, asking for righteous leadership and lasting peace through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The musical arrangement by Itua Inetiabor opens with a lively, four-part harmony for the choir. The SATB response is bright and uplifting, setting a hopeful tone for the Liturgy of the Word. Following the response, the verses shift to a single, chant-like melody line. This allows a cantor or a unison choir section to clearly proclaim the psalm's powerful message of care for the poor, the weak, and the helpless.

Choirs across Nigeria sing this setting during Mass on this special national feast day. It serves as both a liturgical requirement and a heartfelt petition from the pews, uniting the voices of the faithful in a shared prayer for their homeland.