AUDIO
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Archbishop Peter Jensen's Christmas Message 2011 on the centrality of Jesus to human history
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Last month I wrote an article for Southern Cross, suggesting that we should abolish the old hymns. I was not really surprised to see this generate some controversy. One curious fact has emerged from the debate - the defenders of old hymns seem much more passionate about their songs than those who are promoting contemporary material.
Why is that? I’m not really sure, but I thought I’d try to stir up some enthusiasm by nominating some favourite contemporary church songs. Here’s my list -
Never Alone - A beautiful modern hymn from Emu, with intelligent, well crafted lyrics and a powerful, uplifting melody.
The Voice of the Lord - My current favourite Morrow song. Inspiring words and melody. Mike was good enough to send me a copy in the key of “A” - now it’s perfect for guitar too.
How Marvelous - Chris Tomlin has re-worked this old hymn and turned it into something special. We introduced this to our church a few weeks ago, and it instantly became a favourite. A spine-tingling, anthemic chorus and a strong gospel focus make this a “must sing”.
Holy (for you alone) - A terrific anthem from Castle Hill Anglican. Simple chords and a great melody.
Beneath the Cross - A wonderful little gospel number from Garage Hymnal. I can’t wait to teach this one at church.
He Has Risen - A great song from a great album by Trevor Hodge. Go check this out - and all his other songs too.
Over to you - what do you think of my choices? What are your favourite contemporary church songs?
Contemporary songs often seem to get popular in very small circles. Even the good ones are going to struggle to get into the repertoire of other tribes and traditions. Not sure how to overcome that problem.
Based on CCLI royalties and SC reader nominations, I have devised the following potential list of favourites
Blessed be your name (Redman)
How deep the fathers love (Townend)
How great is our God (Tomlin)
In Christ Alone (Townend / Getty)
Lord I lift your name on high (Founds)
Mighty to save (Morgan)
Shout to the Lord (Zschech)
Never Alone (Simone Richardson / Philip Percival)
If you have other suggested titles you think should be polled then nominate them here.
I've been realising that your comment in a previous post along the lines of "the congregation don't get sick of songs nearly as quickly as the musos" is very true. Recently we dug out "The Servant King" at a 10am service when it fitted well, and it raised the roof. And at a church day away, the first request in the singalong elective was... "Lord I lift"!! I'm not sure what to do with this data though...
1. A lot of churches are reporting incorrectly. ie. what they sing, instead of just what songs are new
2. A lot of churches are slow to introduce new songs. It should be done at apace the congregation can handle, but it should be done to keep a freshness to what we sing (it's a given the songs should be Christ centred)
Some recent favourites at St Paul's Castle Hill based on solid lyrics and inspiring music (melody and harmony) are:
You Hold Me Now (Hillsong)
Saving One (Starfield)
Micah Song (Trevor Hodge)