Tiwaa Obi Anyi Chukwu

"Tiwaa Obi Anyi Chukwu" (Break Our Hearts, O God) and its companion piece "Chukwu Biko Ewezina Iwe" (God, Please Do Not Be Angry) are deeply moving penitential hymns that call the faithful to genuine repentance. Composed by Emma Ewenike, these Igbo Lenten pieces offer a striking reflection on the contrast between outward piety and inward conversion. The first song paints a vivid, challenging picture of human hypocrisy—describing people who sing like angels in the church or marketplace, yet harbor malice, chase worldly wealth, and lack true love for their neighbors. It is a bold prayer asking God to shatter our stony hearts and replace them with true devotion.

The second movement flows naturally into a tender plea for God's mercy. Acknowledging human frailty and the weakness of the flesh, the choir begs the Father for forgiveness, singing earnestly not to be cast out of His heavenly kingdom. Together, these pieces are incredibly powerful during the Lenten season, penitential services, or as reflective Offertory and Communion hymns. They challenge both the choir loft and the congregation to examine their consciences, reminding everyone that God seeks a broken and contrite heart above all outward displays of worship.