WE SHALL GO UP INTO GOD'S HOUSE

"We Shall Go Up Into God's House" is a vibrant, joyful setting of Psalm 122, a text that has called congregations to worship for generations. Jude Obakwe’s arrangement captures the eager anticipation of stepping into the church, making it a perfect piece to open the Mass. The steady, marching rhythm of the solfa notation gives the choir a sense of forward motion, mirroring the ancient pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

The structure of the verses creates a lively dialogue between the sections of the choir. The basses take the lead with the opening lines of each stanza, grounding the text with strength, before the sopranos answer and lift the melody higher. This call-and-response style keeps the singers engaged and allows the words of the psalmist—praying for peace and celebrating the house of the Lord—to ring out clearly across the pews. It is a wonderful choice for an entrance procession, setting a tone of gladness and unity right from the first note.