ECHOES OF ANCESTRY: THE SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE OF IGBO NATIVE LANGUAGE MUSIC IN ANGLICAN CONTEMPORARY WORSHIP

Abstract

This article explores the spiritual significance of incorporating indigenous musical languages and expressions within the Anglican liturgy, particularly focusing on how these musical elements echo the ancestral connections of the Igbo communities located in the South-East regions of Nigeria. The study employs both firsthand and secondhand data collection techniques. The Linguistic Relativity Theory, or Sapir Whorf Hypothesis, is utilized in evaluating this work. Necessary generalizations and conclusions are qualitatively drawn based on a synthesis of the gathered data, analyzed through phenomenological and culture-centered approaches. The results indicate that a significant number of Igbo Anglican worshippers struggle to understand the indepth meaning of the foreign songs they sing. They also find it difficult to connect spiritually with God during worship and hymns. On most occasions, they only enjoy the sound effects, without fully understanding the meaning of what they are singing. It becomes obvious that in blending traditional Igbo native language music with contemporary worship styles, the Anglican Church not only preserves and celebrates cultural identity but also deepens the spiritual experience of Igbo native worshippers. The integration of Igbo native language music in Anglican contemporary worship also serves as the following, among other functions: A profound link between the cultural heritage of the Igbo people and their spiritual practices; bridging the sacred and secular; spiritual upliftment and healing; alongside connection to ancestry and spiritual heritage. This study recommends the contextualization of hymns; integration of traditional instruments; inclusion of traditional dance and call-and-response; engagement with elders and cultural custodians; liturgical education and training; observation of cultural worship days, documentation and preservation; in addition to theological reflection and dialogue; to sustain the integration of Igbo native language music in Anglican contemporary worship, fostering both spiritual and cultural resonance.