2nd Sunday of Advent: Songs of Bethlehem & Love

by Jaymey Hardin

Below, you'll find a list of songs specifically curated for the 2nd Sunday of Advent: Songs of Bethlehem and Love. These inspiring selections will complement your times of worship in the Advent season.

Traditionally, the weekly themes of Advent are as follows:

Week One: Hope – Prophecy Candle
Week Two: Love – Bethlehem Candle
Week Three: Joy – Shepherd's Candle
Week Four: Peace – Angel's Candle

Advent means "coming" or "arrival," and is a time to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Christ as we celebrate His birth at Christmas–and anticipate His return. Advent takes place on 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. Typically, the four candles symbolize Hope, Love, Joy, and Peace–and are lit in that order.

While some churches light the candles in a slightly different order, this week we'll focus on the theme of Love represented in the "Bethlehem Candle," which reminds us of Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem, and the perfect love that came to us in the birth of Jesus.

The songs featured below will be a great addition to any worship service throughout the Christmas season, so be sure to check them out!

SATB (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
Of the Father's Love Begotten
Of the Father's Love Begotten (w/ brass)
Arranged by Keith Wilbanks
Keith Wilbanks' faithful interpretation of this traditional hymn pairs reverent, worshipful language with triumphant brass accompaniment to create a gorgeous declaration of God's majesty. Arranged for SATB choir, brass parts are also available to Unlimited Plus Members.

SATB (EASY)
Bethlehem
Arranged by Dave Williamson
Haunting verses give way to a chorus of hope and promise in Randy Cox and Kevin Stokes' Bethlehem, perfectly capturing the mystery and wonder of Christ's birth.

SATB (EASY)
Bethlehem
Arranged by John Patrick
A fresh take on the traditional hymn that will give your Christmas service extra sparkle. Solo + SATB for blended and contemporary settings.

INSTRUMENTAL PIANO (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
O Come All Ye Faithful
Arranged by Timothy Webb
Timothy Webb's O Come All Ye Faithful is an exercise in beautiful restraint. From the simple opening stanza the song slowly unfolds into a beautiful, heartfelt setting of the well-known song.

SATB (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
Hallelujah, Love Has Come
Arranged by Jeff Lippencott
With its lush harmonies and powerful lyrics, Jeff Lippencott's Hallelujah Love Has Come is an excellent addition to your Christmas season.

Be sure to check out our complete series on Songs for Advent: