"Free-to-use" means the words can be copied and sung to at least one tune with no concerns about copyright or performance licensing - sometimes in a limited setting.
Many of these hymns are old / traditional - but where possible a variety of styles and genres are included.
Readings
First: Isaiah - The Lord himself will give you a sign: the maiden is with child and will soon give birth to a son who she will call Emmanuel.Psalm 23 : Let the Lord enter, he is the king of glory / The Lord is the earth and its fullness / Who shall climb the mountain of the Lord / He shall receive blessings from the Lord.
Second: Romans : News about the Son of God, who was a descendant of David by the human nature he took ... through him we received grace and our mission to preach ...
Gospel: Matthew - Mary was betrothed to Joseph .. but was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. An angel appeared to Joseph, and told him to take Mary as his wife anyway, and to name the child Jesus. ... All this took place to fulfil the words spoken by the Lord through the prophet, "the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son .."
Themes
The story of Jesus birth, Mary's child, Emmanuel - who belongs to all nations not just the house of David.Suggested free use Hymns
Come Thou Long-expected JesusCreator of the Stars of Night
Hark! A Herald Voice Is Calling
Immortal, Invisible, God only Wise
Lift up your Heads Ye Mighty Gates
Lo How a Rose E'er Blooming
Magnificat - My Soul is Filled with Joy
Magnificat - My Soul Doth Magnify the Lord
O Come Divine Messiah
O Come O Come Emmanuel
O Come Thou Long-expected Jesus
Praise we the Lord this Day
Saviour of the Nations, Come
The Angel Gabriel
The Coming of our God
The God Whom Earth and Sea and Sky
Thou Art Star of the Morning
Suggestions about other hymns that could be included are welcome: leave a comment below.
