Tanzania, Sept. 13 -- Morogoro. He sat in silence, drew a breath, and then began to sing some of his songs.

His voice carried memories of many years ago, years when his pen wrote hymns used to glorify God in the Catholic Church.

This is Pascal Florian Mwarabu, popularly known as Mzee Mwarabu, aged 83, whose composition journey began 45 years ago.

He has penned numerous hymns, many born during trials in his personal life.

Upon The Citizen's sister newspaper Mwananchi arriving at his Ifakara home, Mzee Mwarabu detailed how his remarkable journey into sacred composition unfolded.

The journey of composition

Mzee Mwarabu learned song composition from his brother, though initially unaware it would become his life's calling.

"My brother w...