All Things Bright and Beautiful 

Words: C F Alexander (1818-95) Music: adapted by M Shaw (1875-1958)

All things bright and beautiful, 
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful, 
The Lord God made them all.

Each little flower that opens, 
Each little bird that sings, 
He made their glowing colors, 
He made their tiny wings.

The purple-headed mountain, 
The river running by, 
The sunset and the morning 
That brightens up the sky;

The cold wind in the winter, 
The pleasant summer sun, 
The ripe fruits in the garden, 
He made them every one;

The tall trees in the greenwood, 
The meadows where we play, 
The rushes by the water, 
To gather every day;

He gave us eyes to see them, 
And lips that we might tell 
How great is God Almighty, 
Who has made all things well.

About This Music

All Things Bright and Beautiful is a well-known Christian hymn that gives thanks for the beauty of the natural world. Its familiar words and uplifting tune can bring a sense of warmth, comfort and gratitude to a funeral or memorial service. It may be especially suitable for someone with a Christian faith, or for a person who loved nature, gardening, the countryside or simple everyday pleasures.

This hymn can work well in a religious service, particularly as a congregational hymn. Although it is positive in tone, it can still feel thoughtful and fitting when the service is centred on giving thanks for the person’s life and the world around them.

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