Hymn 117. The Lord's My Shepherd

Few hymns offer the deep, quiet comfort of "The Lord's My Shepherd" set to the beloved Crimond tune. Singing Psalm 23 is a cornerstone of our worship, and this specific arrangement brings out the gentle, reassuring nature of the text. The melody rises and falls with a natural grace, allowing the choir to focus on blending their voices and delivering the words with genuine warmth.

In the choir loft, we often turn to this piece during Communion, where its themes of spiritual nourishment and guidance perfectly match the moment the congregation approaches the altar. It is also a profound source of consolation, making it a frequent and fitting choice for funeral Masses. When we sing lines like "Yea, though I walk in death's dark vale, yet will I fear no ill," we are offering a direct prayer of trust and peace to those who are grieving.

Rehearsing this hymn is usually about refining our phrasing and breath control. Because the tune is so familiar to the congregation, our role is to support them, keeping the tempo steady and the harmonies balanced. It is a simple, enduring song of faith that reminds everyone in the pews that they are guided, protected, and loved by the Good Shepherd.