Christmas is a special time of the year when we celebrate the birth of Jesus. As you prepare for your Christmas worship services this year, don’t forget to include classic Christmas hymns.
Why Sing Christmas Hymns and Carols?
Sometimes, we may feel the need to add some variation to our church services during the Christmas holiday. However, there is beauty in keeping it traditional and classic. By doing so, we can bring together people of all ages and backgrounds for a diverse worship experience.
If you’re looking for the right songs or hymns for your Christmas service, look no further. Here are five classic Christmas hymns that you can sing this holiday season:
Angels We Have Heard on High
The hymn “Angels We Have Heard on High” originated in France in the 1800s. It is said to be inspired by the Bible verse Luke 2:14, which announced the birth of Jesus: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” The original French version of the hymn, “Les Anges dans nos campagnes,” was written in the Provencal dialect. It is believed to have been a traditional Christmas carol sung by shepherds in the countryside. Later, it was translated into English.
This hymn is a celebration of the birth of Jesus and represents the angelic chorus we may imagine singing that day. With the simple “Gloria” chorus, it’s one that many can sing along to with ease, regardless of their background.
Additional Resource
Find this classic Christmas hymn on our website: Angels We Have Heard on High
Joy to the World
Whenever I think of celebration and Christmas, one particular hymn immediately comes to mind. It’s a classic called “Joy to the World,” written by the English hymn writer Isaac Watts. The song’s lyrics are based on the story of Jesus’ birth in Luke 2, as well as on Psalm 98. There is something truly significant and uplifting about singing about the joy that comes from the birth of Jesus, which is why this hymn has become such a well-loved Christmas classic.
In Luke 2, the angel announces the good news of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds with, “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” This message of hope, joy, and peace is at the heart of the Christmas story. “Joy to the World” captures that original message perfectly. This hymn adds a sense of joy and excitement to your Christmas services.
Fun note: There are many versions of Joy to the World available today. You can sing this hymn in its classical form, or you can find a version that expresses it with a fresh, modern take. Either way, this song is guaranteed to bring joy to your services.
Additional Resources
Find this classic Christmas hymn, plus modern variations, on our website:
Go Tell It on the Mountain
“Go Tell It on the Mountain” is a timeless gospel song originally written as an African American spiritual by John Wesley Work, Jr.
The stirring lyrics serve as a powerful reminder of the good news of Jesus that we celebrate every Christmas season. They encourage us to share the story of Jesus with others, just as the shepherds did. It is a call to spread the message of hope, love, and salvation to everyone we meet. The song’s upbeat melody and joyful lyrics make it a favorite among congregations around the world. The song reminds us of the true reason for the season and prompts us to joyfully proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to all those around us.
A few years ago, I had the honor of singing this hymn in a Christmas service. Although I was already familiar with the song and had heard it many times, it wasn’t until I sang it for the service that the lyrics truly impacted me. The significance of the story sank in as I sang the words:
“Down in a lowly manger,
Our humble Christ was born,
And brought us all salvation
That blessed Christmas morn.”
Additional Resource
Find this classic Christmas hymn on our website: Go Tell It on the Mountain
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Much like “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” is based on Luke 2:14 and the joyful announcement of the birth of Jesus. The song was originally part of a collection of sacred hymns and poems compiled by John Wesley in the 1700s. However, the musical arrangement we know today was not developed until a century later:
In the 1800s, German pianist Felix Mendelssohn composed a Christmas cantata to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Johannes Gutenberg’s movable-type printing press. Later, English musician William H. Cummings added the lyrics to create the version of the song we know today. Despite being composed by different people at different times, the song remains a beloved classic hymn.
Additional Resource
Find this classic Christmas hymn on our website: Hark the Herald Angels Sing
O Holy Night
“O Holy Night” is possibly one of the most well-known classic hymns to sing this Christmas. Poet Placide Cappeau wrote the song in 1843. Later, it was set to music by composer Adolphe Adam in 1847. The powerful lyrics of the song, which are rich with symbolism, can create a deeply spiritual and moving atmosphere during your Christmas services.
What’s interesting about this song is that the writer, Placide Cappeau, was a known atheist. Despite this, he managed to craft a beautiful and timeless piece that has resonated with people for years and years.
Additional Resource
Find this classic Christmas hymn on our website: O Holy Night
Profoundly Impact Your Worship Services with Classic Christmas Hymns
When selecting music for your Christmas services, it’s important to make careful decisions. These songs can significantly influence the overall tone of the service. While choosing which songs to include, it’s crucial not to overlook classic hymns, such as these. Although these hymns may be familiar and sung frequently, their messages have a profound impact across generations for a reason.
