How Beautiful

"How Beautiful" is a gentle, reflective song that draws the congregation into a deep sense of reverence. Written by Twila Paris, the piece meditates on the physical reality of Christ’s sacrifice—the hands that broke the bread, the feet that walked the dusty roads to Calvary, and the heart that bled for our sake. It is a wonderful choice for Communion, as the repeated refrain reminds us that we are receiving and becoming the very body of Christ.

In the choir loft, this arrangement by Jay-R Altoveros offers a wonderful opportunity for expressive, tender singing. The melody is simple but profound, allowing the text to shine without being overwhelmed by heavy accompaniment. As the verses progress, the lyrics shift from Christ’s earthly ministry to the Church itself—the "radiant Bride" waiting for her Groom. This makes the song equally fitting for weddings, where the love of Christ for His Church is mirrored in the sacrament of marriage.

When rehearsing, we want to focus on the phrasing and the emotion behind the words. The bridge, which speaks of offering our own lives as a sacrifice, should swell with quiet conviction before returning to the peaceful awe of the refrain. It is a song that invites both the singers and the listeners to pause, reflect, and marvel at the depth of divine love.