Agnus Dei with "How Great Thou Art"

When a choir wants to lift the congregation into a space of pure adoration, combining two beloved songs of praise is a wonderful way to do it. This arrangement weaves together Michael W. Smith's modern worship anthem "Agnus Dei" with the sweeping, traditional verses of "How Great Thou Art." It bridges generations in the pews, offering something deeply familiar alongside a soaring, contemporary declaration of God's majesty.

The piece opens gently with the "Alleluia" chorus before building into the powerful "Holy, holy" refrain. Just as the voices settle, the sopranos introduce the classic lines, "O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder..." The transition feels completely natural. By the time the choir reaches the final section, the two songs overlap—the declaration that the Lamb is worthy intertwines with the awe of "How great thou art," creating a massive, unified wall of sound.

We often hear this sung during special choir presentations, concerts, or extended periods of thanksgiving. It requires good breath control and a choir ready to sing with real conviction, especially as the dynamics swell toward the end. When those final chords ring out, it leaves a lingering sense of reverence in the church.