Christmas Musicals for Church
Issue link: http://read.jwpepper.com/i/1130245
3 THE THRILL OF HOPE – SATB Multigenerational/multi-choral alternatives Although congregational participation is part of the traditional format, the carol movements are interesting enough to stand on their own so the choir can sing them in their entirety if you choose. Several of the movements provide options for children's solo/choir, adult solo/groups. You may incorporate as many groups from your choral pro- gram as you wish (praise team, youth choir, or senior adults) to make this a true church community worship experience. Insert or substitute a treasured carol or add a worship moment that is uniquely part of your church's tradition to make this service your "own." Narration alternatives Although not included, you may end each lesson with the narrator say- ing, "This is the Word of the Lord" and the congregation responding with, "Thanks be to God." If you would like to use your favorite scripture translation or one that is more in line with your style of worship, we hope that you will do so. The Bible ref- erence occurs at the beginning of each lesson. Although two narrators (one male, one female) read the lessons on the Preview CD, use as many (or as few) readers from your congregation and leadership as you wish. This is an excellent opportunity to illustrate the broader body of the church by involving different ages, genders, roles within the church, etc. The opening prayer was originally called the "Bidding Prayer." It was a moment for the people to offer prayers for individuals and leaders from both their own church and the Church-at-large, as well as for the people and leaders of both their own nation and nations throughout the world. We have renamed it "Prayers of the People," but use any title that feels right to you. Likewise, the traditional closing was a "Blessing" which we renamed "Benediction" but you may use another title. This is not an exhaustive list; you will no doubt think of other options. We encourage you to use this work as a template for your own creativity, molding it to suit your specific congregation and your particular worship needs. Choir: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"