FOR THE BEAUTY OF THE EARTH

At the age of twenty-nine, Folliott Pierpoint was mesmerized by the beauty of the nature around him in his birthplace of Bath, England. He was entranced by the countryside with its winding Avon River in the distance. As his heart welled up with emotion, he expressed with the pen his feelings of gratitude within.

Folliott had written 8 stanzas for his hymn, FOR THE BEAUTY OF THE EARTH. One verse not often included gives thanks for God Himself, Who, of course made all of the joys and beauties of this life and of the next life possible! In that verse, Pierpoint wrote:

"For Thyself, best Gift Divine!

To our race so freely given;

For that great, great love of Thine,

Peace on earth, and joy in heaven:

Lord of all, to Thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise."

FOR THE BEAUTY OF THE EARTH was first written for use at a communion service in the church. However, it has since become a chosen hymn during Thanksgiving Season and has proven to be a favourite for children.

When you sing this hymn, let your heart well up with emotion as you remember the things you are grateful to God for.