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 of these hymns are old / traditional - but where possible a variety of styles and genres are included.
A small selection of hymns that may still be copyright are also included, if these are particularly relevant.
Readings
First: Isaiah 43: 18-19, 21-22, 24-25 - the Lord says "see I am making a new road in the wilderness ... I must blot out everything and not remember your sins."Psalm 40 - Heal my soul, for I have sinned against you / Happy the man who considers and the poor and the weak / The Lord will help him on his bed of pain / If you uphold me, I shall be unharmed.
Second: II Corinthians 1:18-22 - Jesus was always Yes - it is through his that we answer Amen to the praise of God.
Gospel: Mark 2:1-22 - The paralytic man could not be taken to Jesus through the crowds, so his friends lowered him in through an opening in the roof - Jesus proves that he .has the authority to forgive sins by ordering the man to pick up his stretcher and walk.
Themes
Jesus forgives our sins. Saying "yes" to the Lord. Faith.Suggested artwork
Suggested free-use hymns
Amazing GraceCome, Let Us to the Lord Our God
Come You Sinners Poor and Needy
O Love of God, How Strong and True
Suggested hymns which may still be copyright
Behold the Lamb of God - LundyChrist is our King - White (esp verse 5)
Father of Mercy, God of Consolation - Quinn
Freely Freely - Ownes
Great God of Mercy - Quinn
Healer of our Every Ill - Haugen
Hear our Entreaties Lord
I Will Sweep Away your Transgressions - Salo
Lay Your Hands - Landry
Lord for the Years - Dudley-Smith
Our Father We Have Wandered - Nichols
Praise the One who Breaks the Darkness - Edwards
The Summons - Bell
Suggestions about hymns that could be included are welcome: please leave a comment below.
