====[ HYMNS, SONGS & CHORUSES ]====

(A.) The first grouping (for Epiphany) is 
primarily (but not exclusively) from 
Australian/NZ hymn books, and other resources for congregational singing.

These hymns have been arranged according to their possible use in worship, E.g.

       Hymn of Praise = God in Providence and Creation
       Hymn of Thanksgiving = Christ our Lord & Redeemer
       Hymn of Faith = The Holy Spirit & The Church’s Life and Witness
       Hymn of Commitment = Christian Discipleship

(B.) The second grouping are additional hymns, songs and carols for Epiphany

(C.) The third grouping is based upon various RCL 
readings for EPIPHANY, including suggestions for “Holy Innocents”.

(D.) The fourth grouping comprehensive listing of 
carols, songs and hymns for the Season of EPIPHANY.

(E.) The fifth grouping includes more carols, 
songs and hymns for the Season of EPIPHANY.


CURRENT LISTINGS:

    AA = Alleluia Aotearoa (New Zealand)
    AHB = The Australian Hymnbook / With One Voice (Aus/NZ)
    AOV As One Voice Willow Connection
    AT = All Together Now (ATN), All Together Again (ATA),
         All Together Everybody (ATE), All Together Okay (ATO),
         All Together Whatever (ATW) (Openbook Pub.)
    BOP = Book of Praise (Presbyterian Church of Canada)
    CG Common Ground (St Andrew Press)
    CH = Chalice Hymnal (Disciples of Christ)
    Covenant = Covenant Songs
    DMAC = David McGregor
    FWS = The Faith We Sing
    GGIVES = God Gives, Books 1,2,3,4 (Songs for Kids, Uniting Education)
    GBEAT = Gospelling to the Beat 1&2 (Scripture Union_
    HS = Hillsong (Hills Christian Life Centre)
    HSNW = Heaven shall not wait (Iona Community/Wild Goose Resource Group_
    IECS = In every corner sing
    MP = Mission Praise
    NCH = New Century Hymnal (UCC-USA)
    NCYC = NCYC Songs (National Christian Youth Convention, Uniting Church)
    Ph = The Presbyterian Hymnal (USA)
    P&W = Praise & Worship (Resource Christian Music)
    RJ = Rejoice! (Presbyterian Church in Australia)
    SA = Sing Alleluia
    SCE = The Source (Kevin Mayhew)
    SINGSBK1 = Singalong Songbook vol.1&2 (Integrity’s Hosanna Music)
    SOF = Songs & Hymns of Fellowship (Kingsway)
    SIS/Song = Scripture in Song (Songs of Praise, Songs of the Kingdom etc.)
    TFWS = The Faith We Sing (United Methodist USA)
    TIO = There is one among us (John Bell/Wild Goose Resource Group)
    TIS = Together in Song (Australia/New Zealand)
    UMH = United Methodist Hymnal (USA)
    VU = Voices United (United Church of Canada)

(* = Recommended) (** = Highly Recommended)


Suggested Hymns (From Denis Towner. TIS = 
Together in Song; AHB = Australian Hymn Book; SA = Sing Alleluia)

________________________

(A.) HYMN SUGGESTIONS FOR EPIPHANY - YEAR A

        /for more EPIPHANY Carols and Hymns, SEE BELOW/

The Australian Hymnbook / With One Voice / Together in Song

==[PRAISE: God in Providence and Creation ]==

At the first coming of the Lord (SA 10)
Father, in whom we live (AHB 51)
 From all that dwell below the skies  (Psalm 117) (TIS 72 + AHB 42)
Hail to the Lord's anointed (TIS 275 + AHB 203) (Psalm 72)
Laudate Dominum: Praise the Lord (Psalm 117) (TIS 73 + SA 57, Taizé Chant)
Let all the peoples praise you, O Lord  (Psalm 102) (SA 58, Willcock Psalm)
Maker, in whom we live (AHB 51)
Praise our God, the great creator (TIS 165 + AHB 110)


==[THANKSGIVING: Christ our Lord and Redeemer ]==

** Angels from the realms of glory (TIS 309 + AHB 235) (UMH 220)
** As with gladness men of old (TIS 314 + AHB 
239) (BOP 172) (CH 173) (NCH 159)
      (Ph 63) (VU 81)
At the name of Jesus (TIS 231 + AHB 170)
** Brightest and best are the sons of the morning 
(TIS 310 + AHB 234) (BOP 175)
     (CH 174) (NCH 156,157) (Ph 67)
** Brightest and best of the stars of the morning 
(TIS 310 + AHB 234) (BOP 175)
     (CH 174) (NCH 156,157) (Ph 67)
Christ is the world's true light (TIS 238 + AHB 179)
Christ, when for us you were baptised (TIS 250 + SA 20)
** Christ, whose glory fills the skies (TIS 212 + AHB 140) (BOP 177)
      (Ph 462) (UMH 173)
** Earth has many a noble city (TIS 291 + AHB 216,
      Aurelius Clemens Prudentius, 4th century)
Father eternal, ruler of heaven (AHB 540)
He is the Way (SA 44, W.H. Auden)
* How bright appears the morning star! (TIS 199 + AHB 220, German, 14th cent.)
      (BOP 180) (VU 98)
** How brightly beams the morning star! (TIS 199 
+ AHB 220, German, 14th cent.)
      (BOP 180) (VU 98)
Jesus comes with all His grace (AHB 149, Charles Wesley)
Jesus shall reign where'er the sun (TIS 207 + AHB 136) (Psalm 72)
** Joy to the world!  The Lord is come (TIS 268 + AHB 224) (UMH 246)
Let Him to whom we now belong (TIS 563 + AHB 146)
Lord, bid Your servant go in peace (TIS 324 + AHB 248)
      (Nunc Dimitis St. Luke 2)
Lord Christ, we praise Your sacrifice (TIS 251 + SA 60, Alan Gaunt)
** Love came down at Christmas (TIS 317 + AHB 243) (NCH 165) (UMH 242)
O changeless Christ, for ever new (TIS 254 + SA 69, Timothy Dudley-Smith)
** O come, all ye faithful (TIS 304 + AHB 228) (BOP 159)
      (Ph 41) (UMH 234) (CH 148) (NCH 135) (VU 60)
So God loved the people of the world (TIS 241 + SA 78, Aboriginal: Arnhem Land)
** The first Nowell the angel did say (TIS 301 + AHB 221) (BOP 136)
      (Ph 56) (NCH 139) (UMH 245) (CH 151)
'The Kingdom is upon you' (SA 81, Robert Willis)
The North wind is tossing the leaves (TIS 322 + AHB 246)
The Son of God proclaim (TIS 528 + SA 84, Basil E. Bridge)
* To us a child of royal birth (TIS 308 + AHB 230)
** When God almighty came to be one of us (TIS 281 + AHB 214,
      Michael E. Hewlett)
When Christ was lifted from the earth (TIS 248 + SA 93, Brian A. Wren)
** When He was baptised in Jordan (TIS 252 + SA 91, Bernard Braley)
Your coming, Lord, to earth in Bethlehem (TIS 285 + SA 98, Wesley Milgate)


==[FAITH: The Spirit and the Church: Its Life & Witness ]==

Blessed Jesus, at your word (TIS 437 + AHB 352)
Come, ye that love the Lord (TIS + AHB 356)
Come down, O Love divine (TIS 398 + AHB 310)
In Christ there is no east or west (TIS 459 + AHB 391)
Pour out thy Spirit from on high (TIS 451 + AHB 378)
* Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (TIS 454 + AHB 382)
They that believe and are baptised (TIS 479 + AHB 405)


==[COMMITMENT: Christian Discipleship ]==

Now to Him who loved us, gave us (TIS 771 + AHB 576)
Take my life and let it be (TIS 599 + AHB 520)

________________________

(B.) OTHER HYMNS, SONGS & CHORUSES:

Arise, your light is come! (BOP 712)
At the first coming of the Lord
Christ accepted you
Christ beside me
* Go, tell it on the mountain (BOP 133)
He is the King of Kings
His name is higher than any other
I want to walk as a child of light
I will sing...a song unto the Lord
Jesus is Lord! Creation's voice proclaims it
Let us greet Christ in the morning
O morning star, how fair and bright
See him lying on a bed of straw  (Calypso Carol)
The Light of Christ has come into the world
* The morning light is breaking
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
* We three kings of orient are (BOP 173)

________________________

(C.) SCRIPTURE ALLUSIONS: (FOR EPIPHANY, JANUARY 6TH)

==[ Isaiah 60:1-6]==

[The Future Glory of Jerusalem]

A light is gleaming (VU 82)
A voice was heard in Ramah (More Voices 111)
Am I a soldier of the cross (UMH 511)
Arise, my soul, arise (SOF 16, Charles Wesley)
* Arise, shine out, your light has come (BOP 179, Brian A. Wren) (UMH 725)
** Arise, your light is come! (BOP 712) (NCH 164, Ruth C. Duck)
Arise, Shine (TFWS 2005)
Arise, shine out, your light has come (UMH 725)
Awake, arise, oh sing a new song (BOP 819, Marna Leasure)
Be thou my vision (TIS 547 + AHB 455)
Beauty for brokenness, hope for despair (TIS 690, Graham Kendrick)
Behold the darkness shall cover the earth (SOF 34, Eric Glass)
Behold the darkness - Arise, shine
Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light (UMH 223)
Christ is the world's true light (TIS 238 + AHB 179)
Christ, whose glory fills the skies (TIS 212 + AHB 140)
Come, Thou long-expected Jesus (TIS 272 + AHB 200)
Come to be our hope, Lord Jesus (TIS 688, Jaci Maraschin)
Darkness like a shroud - Arise shine
"De Tierra Lejana Venimos" (UMH 243 'From a Distant Home')
* Father eternal, ruler of creation (AHB 540, Laurence Housman, 1865-1959)
 From a distant home (UMH 243, "De Tierra Lejana Venimos")
Gather us in (TFWS 2236)
Glory to God (TFWS 2033)
Here in this place new light is streaming (TFWS 2236)
Honour and praise (TFWS 2018)
Hail to the Lord's anointed (TIS 227 + AHB 151)
Hark the glad sound! The Saviour comes (TIS 269 + AHB 197)
* How brightly beams the morning star! (TIS 199 + AHB 220)
I am the light of the world (VU 87)
* Immortal, invisible, God only wise (TIS 143 + AHB 80) (UMH 103)
* Jesus, if still the same Thou art (AHB 472, Charles Wesley, 1707-88)
* Joyful the morning when Jesus Christ is risen! (TIS 383 + SA 56,
      Torres Strait)
Keep awake, be always ready (NCH 112, Arthur G. Clyde)
Let there be light (NCH 589, William Vories)
* Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim (TIS 351 + AHB 271)
** Light of the nations, sight of the blinded (ATO 389, Robin Mann)
Light of the world (TFWS 2204)
Lord Jesus, if the same You are (TIS 566, Charles Wesley)
Lord, Your almighty word (TIS 447 + AHB 61)
Lord of light, whose name and splendour (BOP 769) [Bethany]
** Lord, the light of Your love is shining (TIS 675, Graham Kendrick)
      (SIS 580/SCE 335/P&W 531/ATE 217/TIS 675/SOF 362) (TFWS 2173)
      (Common Ground 110)
* Lord, Your almighty word (TIS 447 + AHB 61)
O morning star, how fair and bright (UMH 247)
O radiant Christ, incarnate Word (NCH 168, Ruth C. Duck)
O splendour of God's glory bright (UMH 679)
On Jordan's bank the Baptist's cry (TIS 270 + AHB 199) (BOP 126)
* Rise, shine, you people (UMH 187)
Rise up, O men of God (UMH 576)
** Shine, Jesus, Shine (TIS 675, Graham Kendrick) (TFWS 2173)
      (SIS 580/SCE 335/P&W 531/ATE 217/TIS 675/SOF 362)
      (Common Ground 110)
Shine out for Jesus (DMAC, David MacGregor)
Sing of the Lord's goodness (TIS 183, Ernest Sands)
Soldiers of Christ, arise (TIS 570 + AHB 481) (UMH 513)
Stand up, stand up for Jesus (TIS 592 + AHB 509) (UMH 514)
* The advent of our God (TIS 271 + AHB 198)
The Lord is my light (TIS 747, Taizé Chant, 
Jacques Berthier) (ATE 214)
The Spirit breathes upon the word (BOP 506) [Horsley]
* The Spirit of the Lord revealed (AHB 336, George W. Biggs, 1875-1959)
This little light of mine (UMH 585, Spiritual)
* Wake, awake! for night is flying (TIS 266 + AHB 195) [Communion]
We are called (TFWS 2172)
* We've a story to tell to the nations (BOP 765) (UMH 569)
Will you come and see the light? (VU 96)
** Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (TIS 454 + AHB 382) (BOP 174)
Your kingdom come, O God!  Your rule, O Christ, begin (BOP 269)


==[ Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 ]==

[A Prayer for the King]

** All hail to God's anointed (TIS 275 + AHB 203) (CH 140) (NCH 104) (Ph 204)
      (UMH 203)
All poor folk and humble (VU 68)
All poor men and humble (VU 68)
All poor ones and humble (VU 68)
As the sun doth daily rise (UMH 675)
At the name of Jesus (TIS 231 + AHB 170) (UMH 168)
Blessed be the Lord God (Song 18, Shirley Powell)
Blessed Be the Name (UMH 63)
Canticle of Simeon (Nunc Dimittis) (UMH 225)
Come, Christians, join to sing (AHB 62, James Montgomery, 1771-1854) (UMH 158)
Comfort, comfort all my people (TIS 647, Robin Mann) (ATN 25/AOV2-12, various)
Do justice (DMAC, David MacGregor)
* Earth has many a noble city (TIS 291 + AHB 216)
Freedom is coming (ATO 355, African trad.)
 From the rising of the sun (SIS 142/P&W 116, Deming)
 From the sun's rising (SCE 116, Graham Kendrick)
Glorious things of You are spoken (TIS 446 + AHB 374) (UMH 731)
** Hail to the Lord's anointed (TIS 275 + AHB 
203) (BOP 115) (CH 140) (NCH 104)
      (Ph 204) (UMH 203)
Hark! the glad sound, the Saviour comes  (TIS 269 + AHB 197)
** Jesus shall reign where'er the sun (TIS 207 + AHB 136) (NCH 300) (Ph 423)
      (UMH 157)
Justice shall flourish in God's time (Ph 204, Psalm 72)
Let it rain (SCE 314, Pott)
Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates (UMH 213)
My soul gives glory to my God (UMH 198)
Now thank we all our God (UMH 102)
O hear our cry, O Lord (Ph 205)
Oh a song must rise (More Voices 142)
Prepare the way for Jesus to return (SOF 457, Dave Bilbrough)
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord (TIS 161 + AHB 109,
      Timothy Dudley-Smith) (UMH 200)
The gift of love (UMH 408)
This kingdom (SCE 278, Geoff Bullock)
When morning gilds the skies (TIS 227 + AHB 151)
Word of God, come down on earth (UMH 182)
** Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (TIS 454 + AHB 382) (BOP 174)


==[ Ephesians 3:1-12 ]==

[Paul's Work for the Gentiles]

* All hail the power of Jesus' name (TIS 224 + AHB 159)
* Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! (BOP 687) (UMH 369)
Christ for the World We Sing (UMH 568)
* Christ, from whom all blessings flow (TIS 440 + AHB 364) (UMH 55)
Christ is made the sure foundation (UMH 559)
* Christ is the heavenly food that gives (TIS 522 + AHB 445)
* Christ is the world's light, He and none other (TIS 246 + AHB 191 (UMH 188)
* Christ, our King before creation (AHB 190, Ivor Harold Jones)
Christ, within us hidden (More Voices 162)
Dream a dream (More Voices 158)
One more step along the world I go (VU 639)
Praise our God, the great creator
Go, tell it on the mountain (UMH 251)
God has spoken to his people, hallelujah (TIS 636 + SA 39, Willard F. Jabusch)
* God is unique and one (AHB 107, Frederik H. Kaan)
God moves in a mysterious way (TIS 126 + AHB 54)
Grace alone (TFWS 2162)
* Have faith in God my heart (TIS 619 + AHB 552)
Here in this place new light is streaming (TIS 474, Marty Haugen)
Help Us Accept Each Other (UMH 560)
Holy Spirit, ever dwelling (TIS 410 + AHB 323)
How deep the riches of our God (TIS 167 + AHB 116)
* In Christ there is no east or west (TIS 459 + AHB 391)
In great thanksgiving, O Love divine (TIS 632 + SA 349, Melchizedek M. Solis)
Lord Christ, at Your first Eucharist You prayed (TIS 521 + AHB 443)
** Make me a captive Lord (TIS 604 + AHB 528) (UMH 421)
My eyes have been enlightened (SIS 352, Garratt)
O Laughing Light, O first-born of creation (TIS 255, Sylvia G. Dunstan)
* O sacred head sore wounded (TIS 339 + AHB 255)
O Zion, Haste (UMH 573)
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war (UMH 575)
Our Father, by whose name (SA 71, Francis Bland Tucker)
Praise our God, the great Creator (TIS 165 + AHB 110)
* Sing a new song, sing a new song (TIS 166 + AHB 102)
Song of Hope (TFWS 2186)
Terrible as an army with banners (SOF 499, Dave Fellingham)
* The eternal gifts of Christ the king (AHB 342, Attrib. Aurelius Ambrosius)
* To the name of our salvation (AHB 127, from the Antwerp Breviary 1446)
We are called (TFWS 2172)
* We are family (SIS 165/ATN 12N, Owens, “We are heirs of the Father…”)
* We are heirs of the Father (SIS 165/ATN 12N, Owens ‘We Are Family’)
We are God's people (TFWS 2220)
We would see Jesus (UMH 256)
Ye servants of God (UMH 181)


==/ Matthew 2:1-12 /==	

[Visitors from the East]

* A holy baby is born in Judah's Bethlehem (BOP 345, Tom Colvin)
* All my heart this night rejoices (Ph 21)
All my heart today rejoices (Ph 21)
Alleluia (UMH 186)
** All poor folk and humble, all lame folk who stumble
** All poor men and humble, all lame men who stumble
** All poor ones and humble, all lame ones who stumble
Angel-voices, ever singing
** Angels from the realms of glory (TIS 309 + AHB 235) (BOP 146)
      (Ph 22) (UMH 220) (CH 149) (NCH 126) (VU 36) [French Carol]
** Angels we have heard on high (BOP 147) (CH 
155) (NCH 125) (Ph 23) (UMH 238)
Arise, your light is come
* As with gladness men of old (TIS 314 + AHB 239) (Ch4 326)
      (BOP 172) (NCH 159) (Ph 63) (VU 81)
At this time of giving
** Behold a rose is growing (TIS 294, 'Es Ist Ein Ros', German Carol)
      (BOP 151) (NCH 127) (Ph 48) (UMH 216) (CH 160)
Behold, the great Creator makes
Born in human likeness (More Voices 47)
** Born in the night, Mary's Child (TIS 232, Geoffrey Ainger)
      (BOP 137) (Ph 30) (NCH 152) (BOP 137)
** Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light (Ph 26) (NCH 140) (UMH 223) (German)
Bright star (GGIVES4-2, Paterson) [kids!]
* Brightest and best of the sons of the morning 
(TIS 310 + AHB 234) (Ch4 327)
      (NCH 156,157) (Ph 67) (CH 174) [COMMUNION]
* Brightest and best of the stars of the morning 
(TIS 310 + AHB 234) (Ch4 327)
      (NCH 156,157) (Ph 67) (CH 174) [COMMUNION]
Bring we the frankincense of our Lord (Ph 62)
Carol of the Epiphany (TFWS 2094)
Child of the stable's secret birth
Child so lovely, here I kneel before You (UMH 
222, Nino Lindo, Venezuelan Carol)
Christ is the world's true light (TIS 238 + AHB 179)
Christ, whose glory fills the skies (TIS 212 + AHB 140)
Cloth for the cradle
** Come and join the celebration (Ch4 321, Valerie Collison)
Come, your hearts and voices raising (TIS 297, Paul Gerhardt)
** "De Tierra Lejana Venimos" (Ph 64) (UMH 243, Puerto Rican Carol,
       'From a Distant Home')
* Earth has many a noble city (TIS 291 + AHB 216)
      (Aurelius Clemens Prudentius, 4th century)
Emmanuel (HS, Badham)
Faithful vigil ended
Father eternal, ruler of creation (AHB 540, Laurence Housman, 1865-1959)
** From a distant home (Ph 64) (UMH 243, Puerto Rican Carol,
      "De Tierra Lejana Venimos")
 From the eastern mountains
* Funny kind of night, funny kind of day (TIS 329, John L. Bell)
** Gentle Mary laid her child, lowly in a manger (Ph 27) (VU 46)
Give a shout in celebration! (DMAC, David MacGregor)
* Give thanks with a grateful heart (TIS 717, Henry Smith) (TFWS 2036)
* Glory to the King of Kings (TIS 718, Geoff 
Bullock) (P&W 679/SCE 121/HS)
Glory to God (SCE 528, Graham Kendrick)
** Go, tell it on the mountain (BOP 133, African-American Spiritual)
      (CH 167) (NCH 154) (Ph 29) (UMH 251) (VU 43)
God gave Jesus for us all (TIS 719, David MacGregor) (DMAC) [kids]
God, help us to treasure (More Voices 147)
God in human shoes (ATO 338, Thiele)
** Good Christian friends, rejoice (TIS 313 + AHB 238) (BOP 141) (Ch4 322)
      (Ph 28) (UMH 224) (CH 164) (NCH 129) (VU 35)
** Good Christian men, rejoice (TIS 313 + AHB 238) (BOP 141) (Ch4 322)
      (Ph 28) (UMH 224) (CH 164) (NCH 129) (VU 35)
** Good Christians, all rejoice (TIS 313 + AHB 238) (BOP 141) (Ch4 322)
      (Ph 28) (UMH 224) (CH 164) (NCH 129) (VU 35)
Hail, Thou source of every blessing
* Hail to the Lord's anointed (TIS 275 + AHB 203) (BOP 115)
      (UMH 203) (NCH 104) (UMH 203) (CH 140)
He is here (SCE 157, Graham Kendrick)
Holy Child, how still You lie
Honour and praise (TFWS 2018)
How bright appears the morning star! (AHB 220, German, 14th century)
How brightly beams the morning star! (AHB 220, German, 14th century)
"I am the Light" (NCH 584)
I am the light of the world
I heard the voice of Jesus say (TIS 585 + AHB 500)
** In the bleak midwinter, frosty winds made moan (BOP 145)
       (Ch4 305) (Ph 36) (UMH 221) (NCH 128) (VU 55)
It's a surprise (GBEAT2-72, Gibson) [kids!]
Jesus be praised (TFWS 2079)
Jesus, good above all other
Jesus shall reign where'er the sun (TIS 207 + AHB 136)
** Let all mortal flesh keep silence (TIS 497 + AHB 418)
    (UMH 626) [4th Century]
* Let earth and heaven combine (TIS 305 + AHB 229, by Charles Wesley)
* Let heaven and earth combine (TIS 305 + AHB 229, by Charles Wesley)
Let there be light
Like a candle flame (SCE 322, Graham Kendrick)
** Lo, how a rose e'er blooming (TIS 294, 'Es Ist Ein Ros', German Carol)
      (BOP 151) (NCH 127) (Ph 48) (UMH 216) (CH 160)
** Long ago, prophets knew (TIS 283 + SA 61, Frederick Pratt Green)
* Lord Jesus, our bright Morning Star (TIS 199, Philipp Nicolai)
Lord, when the wise men came from far
Lord, who left the highest heaven
"Los mago que Illegaron a Belen" (NCH 155, Puerto Rican Carol)
** Love came down at Christmas (TIS 317 + AHB 243) (Ch4 316)
      (UMH 242) (NCH 165)
Many are the light beams
* Midnight stars make bright the skies (Ph 65, Chinese Carol)
"Niño Lindo" (UMH 222 'Child So Lovely')
* No crowded eastern street
Now the silence (UMH 619)
** O come, all ye faithful (TIS 304 + AHB 228) (BOP 159) (Ch4 306)
      (Ph 41) (UMH 234) (CH 148) (NCH 135) (VU 60)
O God, who by a star did guide
O little Love, who comes again
** O little town of Bethlehem (TIS 316 + AHB 240) (BOP 164,165) (Ch4 304)
      (Ph 43,44) (UMH 230) (CH 144) (NCH 133) (VU 64)
** O Morning Star, how fair and bright (UMH 247)
O radiant Christ, incarnate word
O splendour of God's glory bright (Ph 474) (UMH 679)
O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (TIS 454 + AHB 382)
** On Christmas day all Christians sing (TIS 300, Sussex Carol,
      Trad. Arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams) (Ch4 294) (BOP 162) (NCH 143)
** On Christmas night all Christians sing (TIS 300, Sussex Carol,
      Trad. Arr. Ralph Vaughan Williams) (Ch4 294) (BOP 162) (NCH 143)
** On this day earth shall ring (Ph 46, Piae Cantiones) (UMH 248)
** Once in royal David's city (TIS 312 + AHB 237) (BOP 166) (Ch4 315)
      (Ph 49) (UMH 250) (CH 165) (NCH 145)
* Rise up, shepherd, and follow (Ph 50, African-American Spiritual,
      “There's a star in the East on Christmas morn …”) (TFWS 2096)
Royal sons of a royal king (SOF 470, Brenda McArthur)
** See him lying on a bed of straw (Ch4 310, Michael A. Perry 1942-1996)
* See! In yonder manger low (Ch4 313)
      [Calypso Carol]
Sheep fast asleep, there on a hill (Ph 52) (NCH 
137, Genzo Miwa, Japanese Carol)
Shepherds came, their praises bringing
** Silent night! Holy night! (TIS 311 + AHB 236, by Joseph Mohr) (BOP 154)
      (Ch4 309) (Ph 60) (UMH 239) (CH 145) (NCH 134) (VU 67)
* Sing we now of Christmas, Noel, sing we here! (UMH 237) [French Carol]
* Singing glory (ATO 371, Annette Fechner)
Sleep, sweet child, thy mother watches
* Songs of thankfulness and praise (BOP 176) [Salzburg]
* Star Child (TFWS 2095) (As One Voice II 43)
** The first Nowell the angel did say (TIS 301 + AHB 221) (BOP 136)
      (Ph 56) (NCH 139) (UMH 245) (CH 151) (VU 91)
The magi who to Bethlehem did go (NCH 155, Puerto Rican Carol)
The royal banners forward go (TIS 332 + AHB 251)
** The Virgin Mary had a baby boy (TIS 307 + AHB 
232, West Indian) (Ch4 300)
      (TFWS 2098)
The wise may bring their learning, the rich may bring their wealth
      (BOP 344, Anon.)
There's a song in the air (UMH 249)
There's a star in the East on Christmas morn (Ph 50, Spiritual,
      "Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow") (TFWS 2096)
** 'Twas in the moon of wintertime (BOP 144, Huron Carol) (CH 166)
      (Ph 61) (NCH 151) (UMH 244) (VU 71)
* Unto us a child is born! (TIS 293 + AHB 218) (BOP 160)
* We are all the wise men, following the star (ATO 371, Annette Fechner)
** We three kings of orient are (BOP 173) (CH 172) (Ph 66) (UMH 254)
We welcome you, little baby (GGIVES3-34, Gerry Holmes) [kids!]
We would see Jesus (UMH 256)
** What child is this, who laid to rest? (BOP 161, William Chatterton Dix)
      (Ph 53) (NCH 148) (UMH 219) (CH 162) (VU 74) (As One Voice I 165)
      (Tune: Greensleeves)
What kind of greatness (SCE 567, Graham Kendrick)
** What star is this, with beams so bright? (BOP 170)
       (Ph 68, Puer Nobis Nascitur)
When a star is shining over eastern hills
When Christ's appearing was made known
* When God almighty came to be one of us (TIS 281 + AHB 214)
When our God came to earth
Where is this stupendous stranger?
** Who would think that what was needed (Ch4 295, John L. Bell & Graham Maule)
      (NCH 153)
Why, impious Herod, should'st thou fear
Wise men of old came seeking
Wise men, seeking Jesus
* Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (TIS 454 + AHB 382)


==/ Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23, THE HOLY INNOCENTS /==

[The Escape to Egypt and Slaughter of Infants]

Alleluia, alleluia, give thanks to the risen Lord
Amazing grace! how sweet the sound (TIS 129 + AHB 56) (VU 266)
* As with gladness men of old (TIS 314 + AHB 239) (Ch4 326)
At the Name of Jesus (TIS 231 + AHB 170)
** Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light (Ph 26) (NCH 140) (UMH 223) (German)
* Brightest and best of the son of the morning (TIS 310 + AHB 234) (Ch4 327)
      (CH 174) [COMMUNION]
* Brightest and best of the stars of the morning 
(TIS 310 + AHB 234) (Ch4 327)
      (CH 174) [COMMUNION]
By all Your saints still striving
By the Creator, Joseph was appointed
Christ the worker
Christ, whose glory fills the skies (TIS 212 + AHB 140)
Come now, and praise the humble saint
“Duérmete, Niño lindo” (O, sleep now, holy baby)
Earth has many a noble city (TIS 291 + AHB 216)
      (Aurelius Clemens Prudentius, 4th century)
For all Your saints in glory
Great God, we sing that mighty hand
I greet Thee, who my sure Redeemer art (TIS 198 + AHB 128)
I greet You, my Redeemer sure, who lives (TIS 198 + AHB 128)
I heard the voice of Jesus say (TIS 585 + AHB 500)
I love to hear the story
** In Bethlehem a new-born boy (BOP 140) (Ph 35, Rosamond E. Herklots)
** In the bleak midwinter, frosty winds made moan (BOP 145)
       (Ch4 305) (Ph 36) (UMH 221) (NCH 128)
Inspired by love and anger (TIS 674, John L. Bell and Graham Maule)
Jesus, Friend of little children (AHB 524, Walter J. Mathams 1853-1931)
Jesu, lover of my soul (TIS 211 + AHB 139)
Jesus, lover of my soul (TIS 211 + AHB 139)
** Joy to the world! The Lord is come (TIS 268 + AHB 224) (BOP 153) (Ch4 320)
      (Ph 40) (UMH 246) (CH 143) (NCH 132) (VU 59)
** Let all mortal flesh keep silence (TIS 497 + AHB 418) [4th Century]
Lord, who left the highest heaven
* Lullay, lullay, Thou little tiny child
** O come, all ye faithful (TIS 304 + AHB 228) (BOP 159) (Ch4 306)
      (Ph 41) (UMH 234) (CH 148) (NCH 135) (VU 60)
O God of blessings, all praise to you!
O holy city, seen of John
O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (TIS 454 + AHB 382)
Moved by the gospel, let us move
O little Love, who comes again
O, sleep now, holy baby (“Duérmete, Niño lindo”)
O worship the King all glorious above (TIS 133 + AHB 67)
** Once in royal David's city (TIS 312 + AHB 237) (BOP 166) (Ch4 315)
      (Ph 49) (UMH 250) (CH 165) (NCH 145)
Our Father, by whose Name
Praise to God, immortal praise
Sing your praise to God eternal
Sleep, holy Babe!
Sleep, holy child, now hid away
Souls of men, why do you scatter? (TIS 136 + AHB 72)
Stay, my child, my body sharing
** The first Nowell the angel did say (TIS 301 + AHB 221) (BOP 136)
      (Ph 56) (NCH 139) (UMH 245) (CH 151)
** The tyrant issues his decree (Ch4 330, Iain D. Cunningham)
      [The Holy Innocents]
The wise may bring their learning, the rich may bring their wealth
      (BOP 344, Anon.)
There is a place prepared for little children
There's a wideness in God's mercy (TIS 136 + AHB 72)
* Thou who wast rich beyond all splendour
** Unto us a boy is born! (TIS 293 + AHB 218) (Ch4 311) (BOP 160)
      (VU 54)
** Unto us a child is born! (TIS 293 + AHB 218) (Ch4 311)
      (BOP 160) (VU 54)
** Unto us is born a son!(TIS 293 + AHB 218) (Ch4 311)
      (BOP 160) (VU 54)
We praise You, O God, our redeemer, creator
** We three kings of orient are (BOP 173) (CH 172) (Ph 66) (UMH 254)
When Christ's appearing was made known
When Jesus left his Father's throne
** Who would think that what was needed (Ch4 295, John L. Bell & Graham Maule)
      (NCH 153)
Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (TIS 454 + AHB 382)
Ye watchers and ye holy ones (AHB 87)

____________________

(D.) CAROLS, SONGS AND HYMNS FOR EPIPHANY

[The Australian Hymnbook / Sing Alleluia / Together in Song]

All praise to Thee, for Thou, O King Divine  (AHB 180, Francis B. Tucker)
** Angels from the realms of glory (TIS 309 + AHB 235) (UMH 220)
** As with gladness men of old (TIS 314 + AHB 
239) (BOP 172) (CH 173) (NCH 159)
      (Ph 63) (VU 81)
Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart (TIS 547 + AHB 455)
Blessed Jesus, at Your word (TIS 437 + AHB 352)
Born in the night, Mary's child (TIS 323, Geoffrey Ainger) (VU 95)
** Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light (Ph 26) (NCH 140) (UMH 223) (German)
* Breathe on me, Breath of God (TIS 407 + AHB 320) (VU 382)
** Brightest and best are the sons of the morning 
(TIS 310 + AHB 234) (BOP 175)
     (CH 174) (NCH 156,157) (Ph 67)
** Brightest and best of the stars of the morning 
(TIS 310 + AHB 234) (BOP 175)
     (CH 174) (NCH 156,157) (Ph 67)
Bring we the frankincense of our love (Ph 62, H. Kenn Carmichael)
Child in the manger (TIS 319 + AHB 241)
Christ is the world's light, He and none other (TIS 246 + AHB 191) (UMH 188)
Christ is the world's true light (TIS 238 + AHB 179)
** Christ, when for us You were baptised (TIS 250 + SA 20, Francis B. Tucker)
      (VU 99)
** Christ, whose glory fills the skies (TIS 212 + AHB 140) (BOP 177)
      (Ph 462) (UMH 173)
Come down, O Love divine (TIS 398 + AHB 310)
Come, Thou long expected Jesus (TIS 273 + AHB 200)
Come, ye that love the Lord (AHB 356, Isaac Watts, 1674-1748)
** Earth has many a noble city (TIS 291 + AHB 216,
      Aurelius Clemens Prudentius, 4th century)
 From all that dwell below the skies (TIS 72 + AHB 42, based on Psalm 117)
God has spoken by His prophets  (TIS 158 + AHB 92)
God of Grace and God of Glory (TIS 611 + AHB 543) (VU 686)
God, Your glory we have seen in your Son (TIS 461 + AHB 395)
** Good Christians, all rejoice (TIS 313 + AHB 238) (BOP 141)
      (Ph 28) (UMH 224) (CH 164) (NCH 129) (VU 35) [DAY]
** Hail to the Lord's anointed (TIS 275 + AHB 
203, Psalm 71) (BOP 115) (UMH 203)
* Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (TIS 303 + AHB 227) (NCH 160)
He is the Way. Follow Him through the Land (SA 44, W.H. Auden)
* How bright appears the morning star! (TIS 199 + AHB 220, German, 14th cent.)
      (BOP 180) (VU 98)
** How brightly beams the morning star! (TIS 199 
+ AHB 220, German, 14th cent.)
      (BOP 180) (VU 98)
I have call you by your name (TIS 16 + SA 28, Willcock Psalm 27)
* I want to walk as a child of light (TIS 643, Kathleen A. Thomerson)
      (Covenant 18)
** In Christ there is no east or west (TIS 459 + AHB 391)
* Jesus calls us! O'er the tumult  (TIS 589 + AHB 505) (NCH 171,172)
* Jesus comes with all his grace (TIS 219 + AHB 149)
Jesus, friend of little children, be a friend to 
me (AHB 524, Walter J. Mathams)
** Jesus shall reign where'er the sun (TIS 207 + AHB 136) (Psalm 72)
** Joy to the world!  The Lord is come (TIS 268 + AHB 224) (UMH 246)
Laudate Dominum - Praise the Lord (Psalm 117) (TIS 73 + SA 57,
      Jacques Berthier)
** Let all mortal flesh keep silence (TIS 497 + AHB 418)
Let all the peoples praise You, O Lord  (TIS 63 + SA 58, tr. The Grail)
      (Psalm 102)
* Let earth and heaven agree (TIS 305 + AHB 145)
* Let earth and heaven combine (TIS 305 + AHB 229)
Let Him to whom we now belong (TIS 563 + AHB 146)
Lift up your heads, ye gates of brass (AHB 381, James Montgomery, 1771-1854)
Long ago, prophets knew (TIS 283 + SA 61, Frederick Pratt Green)
Lord, bid Your servant go in peace (TIS 324 + AHB 248)
      (Nunc Dimitis St. Luke 2)
Lord Christ, we praise Your sacrifice (TIS 251 + SA 60, Alan Gaunt)
Lord Jesus, our bright Morning Star (TIS 199)
* Lord, the light of Your love keeps shining (TIS 675, Graham Kendrick
      'Shine, Jesus, Shine') (SIS 580/SCE 335/P&W 531/SOF 362)
Lord, Your almighty word (TIS 447 + AHB 61)
** Love came down at Christmas (TIS 317 + AHB 243) (NCH 165) (UMH 242)
Many are the light beams from the one light (NCH 163, Cyprian of Carthage)
Morning has broken  (TIS 156 + AHB 91)
Now to the Lord a noble song (TIS 113 + AHB 33)
O bless the God of Israel (TIS 284 + AHB 378)
O changeless Christ, for ever new (TIS 254 + SA 69, Timothy Dudley-Smith)
** O come, all ye faithful (TIS 304 + AHB 228) (BOP 159)
      (Ph 41) (UMH 234) (CH 148) (NCH 135) (VU 60)
O for a thousand tongues to sing (TIS 210 + AHB 141)
** O little town of Bethlehem (TIS 316 + AHB 240) (BOP 164,165)
      (Ph 43,44) (UMH 230) (CH 144) (NCH 133) (VU 64)
Of the Father's love begotten (TIS 290 + AHB 215)
** Once in royal David's city (TIS 312 + AHB 237) (BOP 166) (Ph 49)
      (UMH 250) (CH 165) (NCH 145) (VU 62)
Pour out Thy Spirit from on high (TIS 451 + AHB 378)
* Praise our God, the great creator (TIS 165 + AHB 110)
Praise the Lord, all you nations (TIS 73, The Taizé Community)
So God loved the people of the world (TIS 241 + SA 78, Aboriginal: Arnhem Land)
Take my life and let it be (TIS 599 + AHB 520)
** The first Nowell the angel did say (TIS 301 + AHB 221) (BOP 136)
      (Ph 56) (NCH 139) (UMH 245) (CH 151)
'The Kingdom is upon you' (SA 81, Robert Willis)
The North wind is tossing the leaves (TIS 322 + AHB 246)
* The people that in darkness walked (TIS 274 + AHB 202)
* The people that walked in darkness (TIS 274 + AHB 202)
The Son of God proclaim (TIS 528 + SA 84, Basil E. Bridge)
** The Virgin Mary had a baby boy (TIS 307 + AHB 232, West Indian Carol)
The voice of God goes out to all the world (TIS 283 + SA 86, Fred Pratt Green)
They that believe and are baptised (TIS 479 + AHB 405)
* To us a child of royal birth (TIS 308 + AHB 230)
* We are marching in the light of God  (TIS 666, South African Chant) (AOK 409)
We limit not the truth of God (TIS 453 + AHB 335)
When Christ was lifted from the earth (TIS 248 + SA 93, Brian A. Wren)
** When God almighty came to be one of us (TIS 281 + AHB 214,
      Michael E. Hewlett)
** When He was baptized in Jordan (TIS 252 + SA 91, Bernard A. Braley)
While shepherds watched their flocks by night (TIS 299 + AHB 223)
** Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (TIS 454 + AHB 382) (BOP 174)
Your coming, Lord, to earth in Bethlehem (TIS 285 + SA 98, Wesley Milgate)

___________________________

(E.) MORE CAROLS, SONGS & HYMNS FOR EPIPHANY:

A Child is born in Bethlehem
A star was His candle
* Across the plains one Christmas night (Australian Carol, John Wheeler)
* All the heavens are lit by a bright starry glow (Australian Carol,
      John Wheeler)
Angel-voices, ever singing
* A great and mighty wonder (Rejoice 173) (Tune: Es ist ein Rose)
A holy baby (BOP 345)
A light is gleaming (VU 82)
A song was heard at Christmas
All glory be to God on high
All my heart this night rejoices
* All poor ones and humble (VU 68)
All praise to You, O Lord (BOP 181) [St. Ethelwald]
Amen, Amen, Amen, Amen (NCH 161, African-American)
* Angel-voices, ever singing
Arise, Shine (VU 886) (Isaiah 60)
* Arise, shine out, your light has come (BOP 179, Brian A. Wren) (UMH 725)
Arise to greet the Lord of light
* Arise, Your light is come! (VU 79)
* Arise, your light has come  (NCH 164, Ruth C. Duck) (Ph 411)
* At the first coming of the Lord
Before the world began
Behold, the great Creator makes
Bethlehem, of Noblest Cities
Blessed are the poor in spirit (NCH 180, Rusty Edwards)
Blessed assurance! Jesus is mine
** Break forth, O beauteous heavenly light (Ph 26) (NCH 140) (UMH 223) (German)
Bring we the frankincense of our love (Ph 62, H. Kenn Carmichael)
Can we by searching find out God
Child of the stable's secret birth
Children of Jerusalem (Rejoice 189)
Christ accepted you
* Christ, be our light (AOK 313, Bernadette Farrell)
Christ beside me
Christ, You are the fullness
Come and join the celebration
** "De tierra Iejana venimos" (Ph 64) (UMH 243) (VU 89, Puerto Rican Carol)
Deep peace  (AOK 400, Robin Mann)
Dost thou in a manger lie
Drawn to the light (ATO 315, John Ylvisaker)
Earth has many a noble city
Faithful vigil ended
** From a Distant Home (Ph 64, "De Tierra Lejana Venimos") (UMH 243)
      (VU 89, Puerto Rican Carol)
 From east to west, from shore to shore
 From God, Christ's deity came forth
 From the eastern mountains
Gloria (Taizé)
Glorious the day when Christ was born
Glory (TIS 718, Geoff Bullock) (P&W 679/SCE 121/HS)
Glory, in the highest, glory
Glory in the highest to the God of heaven
* Glory to God (SCE 528, Graham Kendrick) [child-friendly]
Glory to God! all heaven with joy is ringing
Glory to God in highest heaven
Glory to God in the highest (TFWS 2276)
Glory to God on high
** Go, tell it on the mountain (BOP 133, African-American Spiritual)
      (CH 167) (NCH 154) (Ph 29) (UMH 251) (VU 43) [EVE] [DAY]
God created heaven and earth (VU 251)
God has chosen me (AOK 402, Bernadette Farrell)
God in human shoes (AOK 338, Matthew Thiele)
God is working his purpose out
God of change and glory, God of time and space (NCH 177, Al Carmines)
God of mercy, God of grace (BOP 39)
Had he not loved us
Have you heard the raindrops
He is the King of Kings
Hear the voice of God, so tender (NCH 174, Lavon Bayler)
* Here in this place new light is streaming (TFWS 2236, ‘Gather Us In’)
His name is higher than any other
I will sing ... a song unto the Lord
Immortal Love, forever full, forever flowing free (NCH 166)
In a lowly manger born (NCH 162, Ko Yuki, Japanese Carol)
** In the bleak midwinter, frosty winds made moan (BOP 145) (Ph 36)
      (UMH 221) (NCH 128)
Jesus, good above all other
Jesus is Lord! Creation's voice proclaims it
Joy is now in every place (VU 45)
Let us greet Christ in the morning
Light of the nations (AOK 389, Robin Mann)
Like a candle flame (SCE 322, Graham Kendrick)
* Longing for light we sit in darkness (AOK 313, Bernadette Farrell)
Lord, for the years
Lord, when the wise men came from far
Lord, who left the highest heaven
"Los magos que Illegaron a Belen" (NCH 155, Puerto Rican Carol)
Lovely star in the sky (CH 175, Korean Carol)
Many are the light beams from the one light (NCH 163, Cyprian of Carthage)
Midnight stars make bright the sky (Ph 65, Chinese Carol)
New songs of celebration render
* No crowded eastern street
Now greet the swiftly changing year
Now the silence
O Christ, the healer, we have come (NCH 175, Fred Pratt Green)
O Christ, the great foundation (Ph 443)
O Christ the same, through all our story's pages
O God of Matchless Glory (VU 250)
O God, whom neither time nor space
** O morning star, how fair and bright  (NCH 158) (Ph 69) (UMH 247)
O Saviour of our fallen race
O See the little baby (NCH 161, African-American, "Amen, Amen")
* O Splendour of God's Glory Bright (Ph 474) (UMH 679) (VU 413)
O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness
O Zion, tune thy voice
** On this day earth shall ring (Ph 46) (UMH 248, "Piae Cantiones")
People, look east (Ph 12)
People in darkness are looking for light (BOP 124, Dosia Carlson)
People who walk in darkness have sought (ATO 315, John Ylvisaker,
      "Drawn to the Light")
See amid the winter's snow
* See him lying on a bed of straw  (Calypso Carol)
Shepherds came, their praises bringing
"Silence! Frenzied, unclean spirit" (NCH 176, Thomas H. Troeger)
Sing of God made manifest (CH 176, Carl P. Daw, Jr.)
Sing we now of Christmas, Noel, sing we here! (UMH 237, vs. 1, 4-5.
      French Carol)
Son of the Lord Most High
* Songs of thankfulness and praise (BOP 176) [Salzburg]
Spirit of God, unleashed on earth (Ph 124)
Star-Child (TFWS 2095)
* The darkness turns to dawn
The great God of heaven
The heavens declare Your glory, Lord (Psalm 19)
** The light of Christ has come into the world (Covenant 116)
The magi who to Bethlehem did go (NCH 155, Puerto Rican Carol)
* The morning light is breaking
The New Road (AOK 344, John Beavis)
The people that in darkness pined (BOP 171) [Dunfermline]
The people that in darkness sat
* The race that long in darkness pined (VU 879, Scottish Psalter)
* The Three Drovers (Australian Carol, John Wheeler)
* The trees are whisp’ring a secret from twilight to dawn (Australian Carol,
      John Wheeler)
The wise may bring their learning
This is the year
* Thou who wast rich beyond all splendour
"Tu has venido a la orilla" (NCH 173, Spanish Carol)
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
** 'Twas in the moon of wintertime (BOP 144, Huron Carol) (CH 166)
      (Ph 61) (NCH 151) (UMH 244)
We are all the wise men (Singing glory) (ATO 371, Annette Fechner)
We have the strength to lift and bear (NCH 178, Thomas H. Troeger)
** We three kings of orient are (BOP 173) (CH 172) (Ph 66) (UMH 254)
We would see Jesus (UMH 256, stanza 1)
We yearn, O Christ, for wholeness (NCH 179, Dosia Carlson)
** What child is this, who laid to rest? (BOP 161, William Chatterton Dix)
      (Ph 53) (NCH 148) (UMH 219) (CH 162) (VU 74) (Tune: Greensleeves)
What kind of greatness
** What star is this, with beams so bright? (BOP 170) (Ph 68)
What was Your vow and vision? (CH 177, Brian A. Wren)
What wondrous love is this
When Christ's appearing was made known
When heaven's bright with mystery (BOP 178, Rob Johns) [Melita]
When Jesus came to Jordan to be baptised by John (Ph 72, Fred Pratt Green)
When Jesus left his Father's throne
Where is this stupendous stranger?
Who is he, in yonder stall?
* Who would think that what was needed (NCH 153, John L. Bell & Graham Maule)
Why, impious Herod, shouldst thou fear
Will you come and see? (VU 96)
* Wise men seeking Jesus
Wise men, they came to look for wisdom
* Word of God, come down on earth (UMH 182) [DAWN]
You are salt for the earth, O people (NCH 181, Marty Haugen)
You have come down to the lakeshore (NCH 173, Spanish Carol)
You laid aside Your majesty

________________

FOR COMMUNION:

Brightest and Best of the Sons of the Morning (TIS 310 + AHB 234)
Hallelujah! Sing to Jesus  (TIS 517 + AHB 439)
Wake, Awake! For Night is Flying  (TIS 266 + AHB 195)
Ye Gates, Lift Up Your Heads On High  (TIS 12 + AHB 286)



===[ FEATURED HYMN, from HymnSite.com ]===

  “O DAY OF GOD DRAW NIGH”

Text: Robert B.Y. Scott, 1899-1987
Music: Genevan Psalter, 1551; arr. by William Crotch, 1775-1847
Tune: ST. MICHAEL, Meter: SM

So many common phrases refer to the passage of 
time. Time marches on. Time flies when you're 
having fun. Timeless beauty. Just in time. Many 
more phrases come to mind effortlessly. As people 
on this earth, we often feel that we are at the 
mercy of time. Unfortunately, time has no 
consciousness and no sense of mercy. Indeed, 
time  exacts a toll on each of us with every passing moment.

As fearful and foreboding as that may seem, 
though, the passage of time also brings us closer 
to promises for the future. God's Word holds 
promises for a time of justice and  forgiveness 
for His people. In a large sense, then, whether 
we love or fear the passage of time depends on 
our focus. Do we fear the toll that time takes on 
us, or do we  rejoice in God's promises for the future?

This week's featured hymn was written by Robert 
Scott (1899-1987), a minister ordained in the 
United Church in Canada. Scott was actively 
engaged in expanding the  influence of Christian 
teachings in the order of society. He wrote "O 
Day of God Draw Nigh" in 1937 for the Fellowship 
for a Christian Social Order, an organization in 
which  he served as president for four years. The 
hymn calls for judgment, obedience, security, 
peace, and light. Since then, the world has 
experienced another world war, the  Holocaust, 
and many more military engagements and terrorist 
attacks. We should be saddened and shocked that 
what Scott knew and sought in 1937, if achieved, 
would  have averted all of those tragedies.

Read the words of this hymn thoughtfully and take them to heart.

1. O day of God, draw nigh
    in beauty and in power;
    come with thy timeless judgment now
    to match our present hour.

2. Bring to our troubled minds,
    uncertain and afraid,
    the quiet of a steadfast faith,
    calm of a call obeyed.

3. Bring justice to our land,
    that all may dwell secure,
    and finely build for days to come
    foundations that endure.

4. Bring to our world of strife
    thy sovereign word of peace,
    that war may haunt the earth no more,
    and desolation cease.

5. O day of God, draw nigh
    as at creation's birth;
    let there be light again, and set
    thy judgments on the earth.

As we begin another year, let us look forward to 
the day of God, just as Robert Scott did. And let 
us each do all that we can to share the peace and 
light of the Gospel each day, that all of the 
world might see in us a reflection of the blessed 
day when we can truly say that the day of God has indeed arrived.

God bless you--
Lection@HymnSite.com