Hymn 117. The Lord's My Shepherd

"The Lord's My Shepherd" is one of the most universally loved settings of Psalm 23, sung here to the sweeping and gentle "Crimond" tune. The words, drawn from the 1650 Scottish Psalter, carry a profound sense of trust and quiet assurance. As the melody rises and falls, it paints a picture of green pastures, quiet waters, and the steady, comforting presence of the Good Shepherd guiding his flock.

For a choir, this piece is a staple of comfort and reflection. We often bring it out during Communion, where its message of spiritual nourishment—"My table thou hast furnished... my cup overflows"—fits perfectly with the Eucharistic feast. It is equally powerful at funerals or memorial Masses, offering a congregation the gentle reminder that even in "death's dark vale," they do not walk alone.

Singing this arrangement, the choir moves together through the stacked verses, letting the familiar harmonies support the congregation. The final verse builds to a quiet but firm declaration of faith: that goodness and mercy will follow us, and we will dwell in God's house forever. It is a hymn that asks for nothing but trust, leaving both singers and listeners with a deep, abiding peace.