All People That on Earth Do Dwell

"All People That on Earth Do Dwell" is one of those foundational hymns that instantly grounds a congregation. Based on Psalm 100, the text is a grand, universal invitation to worship, calling everyone to "sing to the Lord with cheerful voice." Set to the sturdy and familiar Old Hundredth melody, it carries a sense of majesty and reverence that feels right at home in our choir lofts.

Because of its strong call to gather and praise, we often use this piece as an Entrance hymn to open the Mass with energy, or as a Recessional to send the people forth. The verses move beautifully from acknowledging God as our creator and shepherd to entering His gates with thanksgiving.

This particular arrangement includes a soaring descant by Tony C. Eluno for the final verse. As the rest of the choir and congregation sing the concluding doxology ("To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost"), the sopranos lift the descant line above the main melody. It adds a brilliant layer of brightness to the ending, leaving the church echoing with praise.