Prepare the Way Worship Series: ARRIVE
December 24, 2018 — Christmas Eve

The following selections are congregational songs (most of which are chosen from this week’s Hymn Suggestions) with notes on key, tempo, and instrumentation, along with some practical and creative considerations in singing.

Hark! the Herald Angels Sing

Source: The United Methodist Hymnal, 240; Mil Voces Para Celebrar, 101
Recommended Key: F
Tempo: 108–112 bpm
Instrumentation: Organ or piano
Notes: Not many Christmas hymns are as well known as this Charles Wesley hymn, which is set to a familiar melody by Felix Mendelssohn. Sing it with gusto, and keep the tempo moderate — not too fast, and not too slow. Accompany with organ, brass, handbells, or any other instruments you have available on Christmas Eve.
Resources: History of Hymns
Original Wesley text
French translation
Simplified keyboard accompaniment

It Came upon the Midnight Clear

Source: The United Methodist Hymnal, 218; Mil Voces Para Celebrar, 90
Recommended Key: B♭
Tempo: 124–144 bpm
Instrumentation: Organ or piano
Notes: Having found as much use as an Advent hymn as a Christmas hymn, “It Came upon the Midnight Clear” offers a clear sense of anticipation toward a time when peace shall rule over all the earth. The hymn begins with the angels’ song and moves toward text more reminiscent of the biblical language of the reign of God. This would serve as a great addition to the hymn singing of Christmas because it is a very well known hymn with themes of hope and peace. The recommended tempo is a wide range, depending on the nature of singing this hymn in your own context. Somewhat slower or faster with a lilt are both appropriate.
Resources: History of Hymns

Jesus, Jesus, Oh, What a Wonderful Child

Source: Worship & Song, 3060
Recommended Key: G
Tempo: 88–96 bpm
Instrumentation: Organ, piano, or rhythm section
Notes: This short chorus is a song of celebration at the arrival of Jesus, who brings “new life” and “new hope.” Keep the tempo swinging and supplement with instruments of all kinds! Children also love this song, so engage them in leading the congregational singing. This song would work well in any setting, including a children’s worship service on Christmas Eve.
Resources: Hymn Study

Amen, Amen

Source: Songs of Zion, 147; The Faith We Sing, 2072
Recommended Key: F–G
Tempo: 108–112 bpm (Quarter note, in 4)
Instrumentation: a cappella, organ or piano if needed
Notes: At first glance, the connection with Christmas might not be apparent. The first verse of the song, however, ties in the Christmas narrative. The congregation would always sing the “Amen” pieces of the song, with an energetic leader singing the solo parts between phrases. Engage the congregation with hand claps on 2 and 4.

Like a Child

Source: The Faith We Sing, 2092
Recommended Key: E♭
Tempo: 68–72 bpm
Instrumentation: Organ or piano
Notes: Originally written with no capital letters and no punctuation, this hymn is one of Dan Damon’s most well-known texts and tunes. In the singing of this hymn, we may be surprised in whom we see Jesus, and who we have to become in order to welcome in the reign of God. Whatever the accompaniment, keep it simple to allow the childlike nature of the tune to support the text. It may also be preferable to introduce the tune with a child singing the first stanza as a solo.
Resources: History of Hymns

The Friendly Beasts

Source: The United Methodist Hymnal, 227
Recommended Key: F
Tempo: 112–118 bpm
Instrumentation: Organ, piano, or guitar
Notes: Continuing the theme of children singing on Christmas Eve, we must include this French carol, which entertains the thoughts of what animals may have been present at Jesus’ birth. If presenting a spontaneous (or pre-planned) nativity, this hymn may be an excellent choice for congregational singing as children relive the story of Christmas. Include a variety of instruments if possible, including flute, violin, recorder, or other melodic instruments.
Resources: History of Hymns