OTITO DIRI CHINEKE

When the opening notes of "Otito Diri Chineke" ring out from the choir loft, the congregation knows it is time to lift their voices in praise. Composed by Jude Nnam for his *Missa Ifunanya* (Mass of Love), this vibrant setting of the Gloria uses the updated Igbo translation of the Roman Missal. It is a staple for Sundays and feast days, capturing the profound joy of the angels' song at Bethlehem.

The piece is structured to keep the whole church engaged. The choir announces the great opening acclamation—"Glory to God in the highest"—before the congregation answers with the steady, comforting refrain, "Udo diri mmadu ndi nwere obioma" (Peace to people of good will). As the verses progress, the choir walks through the traditional prayers of adoration, thanksgiving, and petition to the Father and the Lamb of God.

Nnam’s arrangement shines in its rhythmic energy and natural flow. The verses move briskly, allowing the text to speak clearly without losing momentum, before returning to the familiar refrain. It all builds toward a joyful, layered "Amen" that brings the hymn of praise to a fitting, triumphant close.