This worship series for summer 2022 is one big road trip through the less frequented passages of the Bible. And, like most road trips, we anticipate the new adventures that lie ahead while also packing some familiar items for the trip—a favorite pillow, some toys, snacks, and other items that help us stay grounded, even in unfamiliar surroundings. Similarly, the music in this series can help worshipers be open to new or less familiar scripture by offering them some familiar landmarks. As you develop your playlist for this journey of a lifetime, think of hymns and songs that are group building on many levels.
Consider how campouts are often memorable because of the singing around the campfire. This music tends to be familiar and catchy, so that everyone can participate. Additionally, your playlist should also include a hymn or song text that relates to the journey theme. Maybe, this “journey” song, which gets us from one destination to another, changes or is transformed each week in terms of style or hymn tune. Finally, your playlist should include a song that may be new but brings together all the weeks of this series, the theme song.
You know your congregation, so spend some time looking at the variety of suggested hymns and songs that follow, and pick a familiar song, a theme song, and one that keeps everyone moving on to the next stop.
Abbreviations
- The Faith We Sing - TFWS
- United Methodist Hymnal - UMH
- Worship and Song - W&S
Here are some suggestions:
Campfire song:
- God is So Good TFWS 2056
- What a Mighty God We Serve TFWS 2021
- This is the Day UMH 657
- Every Time I Feel the Spirit UMH 404
- This Little Light of Mine UMH 585
- Every Praise – Hezekiah Walker
Traveling Song:
- Bring Forth the Kingdom TFWS 2190
- Guide My Feet TFWS 2208
- Lead Me, Guide Me TFWS 2214
- Goodness Is Stronger Than Evil TFWS 2219
- I Want Jesus to Walk with Me UMH 521
Theme Song:
- The Servant Song TFWS 2222
- Bind Us Together TFWS 2226
- Gather Us In TFWS 2236
- As a Fire is Meant for Burning TFWS 2237
- In the Midst of New Dimensions TFWS 2238
- Great Is Thy Faithfulness UMH 140
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost, Year C
- Holy God, We Praise Thy Name UMH 79
- How Long. O Lord TFWS 2209
- Lead On, O Cloud of Presence TFWS 2234