Most are free-to-use (ie public domain or copyright-free), so 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 such 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 they are particularly relevant.
Seasonal note
If this day falls on 14-September, it may be replaced by the feast of the The Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Check your local liturgical calendar for details.
Readings
First: Ecclesiasticus / Sirach - Describes the consequences of anger and resentment, and instructs the reader to live by the commandments.Psalm 102 - The Lord is compassion and love, slow to anger and rich in mercy / My soul give thanks to the Lord / It is he who forgives your guilt / His wrath will come to an end / For as the heavens are high above the earth.
Second: Romans 14 - The life and death of each of us had influence on others ... dead or alive we belong to the Lord.
Gospel: Matthew 18 - Jesus tells Peter that he must forgive seventy times seven, and recounts the parable of the servant whose debts where forgiven, but who then did not forvive the debts that were owed to him.
Themes
Mercy and compassion. Forgiveness. God's forgiveness of us, our need to forgive and make peace.Suggested artwork
Suggested free-use hymns
A New CommandmentAmazing Grace
Dear Lord and Father of Mankind
Father of Heaven, Whose Love Profound
Have Mercy, Lord, on Us We Pray
Hear Our Entreaties, Lord
Immortal, Invisible
In Christ there is no East or West
Let us Break Bread Together
Lord Make me an Instrument of Peace
Love Divine all Loves Excelling
There's a Wideness in God's Mercy
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
Suggested hymns which may still be copyright
Help us Accept Each Other - KaanPrayer of St Francis (Make me a Channel of Your Peace) - Temple
Suggestions about hymns that could be included are welcome: please leave a comment below.
