As you go about your daily life, you likely see many Christian symbols in architecture, on books, in hymnals, and especially decorating sanctuaries. We've covered why they're a pivotal part of worship already, but what about the symbols for saints and apostles? What makes them different from the other symbols? Why do we depict them separately? How can you determine who each one represents? Read more below from A Complete Guide to Christian Symbols to find out. 

We sing what we love. We love what we know. And much of what we know and love we learned in childhood. This is especially true of hymns and songs that are impressed on our minds and hearts early and stay with us throughout our lives. It is imperative, therefore, that we give our children the very best hymns and songs of the church.  Learn how you can use One and All Rejoice for every season of the Church Year.

You would never guess that the source of this tune was not chant after hearing this piece. The pushing and pulling tension of chant complements this text in a way never before heard, making for passionate and moving song. This arrangement of “Stricken, Smitten, and Afflicted: A Lenten Plainsong” is flexible for unison, SA choirs, or solo use and would be appropriate for Lent and especially Good Friday. 

Christian symbols are seen throughout history in sanctuaries, books, hymnals, and even architecture. They’re a pivotal part of the faith. Yet, throughout the years, many of their histories and meanings have become muddy. Rediscover what each of the symbols means and why they’re so important with this excerpt from A Complete Guide to Christian Symbols below, starting with how different denominations use symbols.

Christmas music offers the opportunity for musicians to share moments of both sparkling exuberance and gentle peace. From the quiet preservice music to joyful hymns, Christmas piano arrangements provide a meaningful way to glorify God through music and create a worshipful atmosphere reflecting the wonder of Christ’s birth. Here are the top four Christmas arrangements to add to your repertoire this Christmas season.

Ornament your Christmas worship with delightful fughettas using Christmastide Fughettas! This large collection of fourteen hymn-based fugal settings by Donald Rotermund is creative and inventive. Having optional repeats throughout and designed for flexibility, these pieces could be used as solo organ stanzas; as preludes, voluntaries, or postludes; and as introductions or interludes using excerpts.

Saints are well-known figures in Church history. While you might not personally know every saint, their commitment to the faith and contributions are understood by their titles. Just as the saints who have come before us, we wait for the beauty of the final days and celebrate in the resurrection. Read an excerpt below from Lutheran Service Book: Companion to the Services to understand more about how we can rejoice with the saints of both the past and present. 

John A. Behnke’s concertato setting of the beloved Christmas carol “Angels We Have Heard on High” is written for SATB choir, congregation, and organ, and the setting also includes optional parts for handbells and orchestra. If handbells and/or an orchestra are unavailable, the concertato remains a fine setting for the congregation and choir this Christmas. Perform it with everything or incorporate just the subset of instruments you have available.

Paul Gerhardt (1607–76) is considered to be a prolific composer, writing 123 hymns during his lifetime that are still enjoyed by the church today. His dedication to hymn writing even during times of war and suffering showcase how Christ's love can be a rock of comfort no matter what. Read about his top five hymns below to see insights on both the hymn texts and history surrounding each one.