Most are free-to-use (ie public domain or copyright-free), meaning 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.
A small selection of hymns that are still copyright may also be included, if these are particular relevant.
Seasonal note
This day sometimes coincides with 1 February which is the feast of S Brigid of Kildare, or 2 February, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord.
Readings
First: Zephaniah - Seek the Lord all you humble of the earth .. .in your midst I will leave a humble and lovely people.Psalm 145 - How happy are the poor in spirit, theirs is the kingdom of heaven / It is the Lord who keeps faith forever / It is the Lord who gives sight to the blind / It is the Lord who loves the just.
Second: I Corinthians : God chose what is foolish by human reckoning ... God has made members of Christ Jesus and by doing so has become our wisdom, virtue, holiness and freedom.
Gospel: Matthew - The Beautitudes - happy are the poor in spirit, theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Themes
Blessed are the poor: human nothingness without God.Suggested free-use hymns
All Ye Who Seek a Comfort SureAlleluia Sing to Jesus (verse 2 in particular)
Amazing Grace
Blest are the Pure in Heart
If Thou but Suffer God to Guide Thee
Jesu the Very Thought of Thee
The Beatitudes - And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain
The Church's One Foundation
Suggested hymns that may still be copyright
Blest are They - HaasSave us O Lord
Seek the Lord - McAuley
Seek Ye First - Lafferty
The Beatitudes - Kearney - and many other settings
Suggestions about hymns that could be included are welcome: leave a comment below.
