by Jaymey Hardin
In this special feature on Holy Week Music Offerings, we'll explore a list of songs that were specifically curated for your worship services on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday. While perfect for your Holy Week worship services, these songs will work well in the weeks leading up to Easter and throughout the season. In this feature, we'll focus on Songs for Good Friday.
Good Friday is the 6th day of Holy Week, and it marks the most important and historical weekend of the year. It is the reason we have Easter Sunday and celebrate the resurrection. In the days following Christ's death on that historical Friday, he rose again, and ever since, his resurrection has been proclaimed throughout the world!
Christ's death on Good Friday was the fulfillment of prophecies that told of a willing servant that would save us while we were still sinners. A servant who would be the Messiah, the one true King who would bring peace. It was on this Friday that our Savior was mocked, beaten, and crucified. God's wrath against sin was poured out on Jesus, and he bore it all for you and me.
As bad as that day was, we call it Good Friday because it was the culmination of God's plan to save us from our sins. Jesus took our place on the cross, he took the punishment that we deserved and he forgave our sins. We thank you, Jesus.
The following songs will pair well musically and thematically with your Good Friday worship services.
SATB (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
In the Shadow of the Cross
Arranged by Jeff Lippencott
For traditional and blended worship settings, this elegant and expansive SATB anthem powerfully celebrates the light and life we find in Christ's sacrifice.
SATB (EASY)
Alas, and Did My Savior Bleed
Arranged by Dennis Allen
This beautiful 4-part vocal arrangement of this majestic hymn works in a traditional or blended service.
SATB (EASY)
At the Cross
Arranged by Ben McAmis
A steady and stirring rendition of the enduring hymn. With the same thoughtful lyrics and familiar melody, and the addition of a contemporary chorus, this arrangement is equally engaging as a congregational song in a blended worship service and as a solo or small band performance.
INSTRUMENTAL PIANO (EASY)
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
Arranged by Bradley Knight
This Easter favorite begins in a flowing 12/8, then moves through an appropriately dark and mysterious middle passage to a triumphant, expansive ending...just the perfect balance to challenge and satisfy your pianist.
CHORAL ANTHEM SATB (EASY)
It Was Finished on the Cross
It Was Finished on the Cross (w/ video track)
Arranged by Regi Stone, Kristie Braselton
Thanks be to God for His unspeakable gift of all Jesus accomplished on the cross! Arranged for a SATB choir and soloist or worship leader, this song serves well in blended and contemporary settings any time of year. [Lyric video accompaniment track available to Unlimited PLUS Members.]
For more Holy Week Music Offerings, check out our other blogs:
Songs for Palm Sunday
Songs for Maundy Thursday
