by Jaymey Hardin
Below, you'll find a selection of arrangements that are ideal for Advent and that align perfectly with the theme for the 1st Sunday of Advent: Songs of Prophecy & Hope. These inspiring songs will complement your times of worship in the Advent season. Advent means "coming," and it's in this time that we prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus as we celebrate His birth at Christmas–and anticipate His return.
Advent encompasses the four Sundays (and weekdays) preceding Christmas. During this time, churches all over the world will be illuminated as they light a candle on each of these four Sundays. The four candles symbolize Hope, Love, Joy, and Peace–and are lit in this order. With each passing week, our hope and expectancy grow as more candles are lit. And the increasing glow of the candlelight reminds us that the Light of the World is drawing closer.
The first Sunday's candle symbolizes Hope and is called the "Prophecy Candle," referring to the prophets of the Old Testament, especially Isaiah, who foretold of the Messiah's coming.
These beautiful songs will be a great addition to any worship service in the weeks leading up to Christmas, so be sure to check them out! We pray this Advent season is filled with hope and that you experience His love like never before.
SATB (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
Blessed Savior, Son of God
Arranged by Phillip Keveren
This delicate Christmas ballad features a lush orchestral backdrop and tender harmonies. A beautiful, gentle adoration of Jesus, our Emmanuel.
3-PART (EASY)
Come, Emmanuel Medley
Arranged by Craig Adams
A grand medley of carols and hymns with a majestic entrance and contemplative final cadence, this choral arrangement is largely unison with moments of 3-part harmony. An easy addition to your Christmas repertoire.
SATB (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
O Holy Night!
Arranged by Dennis Allen
Dennis Allen's majestic arrangement of this Christmas standard is sure to be a high point in any Christmas gathering. Arranged for SATB choir, this straight-forward, traditional interpretation will fit nicely into any Christmas-themed service or cantata.
INSTRUMENTAL PIANO (DIFFICULT)
O Come, O Come, Immanuel
Arranged by David Hampton
David Hampton's passionate but challenging piano arrangement captures both the deep longing and the joyful expectation of God's promise fulfilled in the Birth of Christ.
CHILDREN'S MEDLEY (EASY)
Christmas Hope Medley
Arranged by Cheryl Rogers
Arranged for unison children's choir and optional women's ensemble, this upbeat medley of classic Christmas carols will enliven any worship service in December. Includes "The First Noel," "O Come, All Ye Faithful," and "Joy to the World!"
Be sure to check out our complete series on Songs for Advent:
