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. 

Jeffrey Blersch’s organ collection Christ Is Made the Sure Foundation features four variations on the tune WESTMINSTER ABBEY. The first masterfully incorporates a Purcell sonata for a regal feel, with the tune in the pedal. The next variation is a light tricinium, with a slow-moving cantus firmus in the left hand, continuous movement with ornamentation in the right hand, and a walking bass in the pedal. This is followed by a movement of lush harmonies utilizing strings with a flute solo in the pedal. The collection finishes with a gripping variation that shifts back and forth between a big, grand, almost menacing maestoso section and an energetic, dancing 6/8 that keeps shifting keys—full of surprises and fun to play.

One staple of worship every Sunday is the Hymn of the Day. Whether printed in your bulletin or posted on the hymn outline board at the front of the church, the Hymn of the Day connects to the theme of the worship service. These hymns become a staple of the service as they’re repeated every one or three years, depending on your preferred lectionary. They help your congregation members familiarize themselves with the hymnal and connect similar themes across church seasons.