Song suggestions for coming Sundays...

Coming up...
Lectionary Index
If you are planning further ahead, you can find suggestions for other Sundays here.

Scripture Index
If you are not using the Lectionary, here is an index to suggestions for specific readings.

Service Music

General Advent Songs and Hymns (Updated for 2025)

Advent Candle-lighting songs and other songs you make like to start looking at for Advent… I will keep adding as the weeks go by, so check back from time to time. There will also be songs for each week of Advent 2024 - see the panel on the right hand side (or the Coming Up in the Lectionary tab) for links which will be added as they are updated.
If you are looking for kid's songs. I have a list specifically with Advent songs for kids too. 

A specific song for blessing the Christmas Bowl
  • Online Resource An empty bowl, uplifted hands (Bob Faser) Good words for just before the start of Advent, when the Christmas Bowl is blessed, ready for contributions during the Advent season. Sung to the tune WINCHESTER NEW. Lyrics.
Specific Candle-Lighting songs (or just songs that build each week toward Christmas
  • Online Resource / GWA090 We are a people of hope (Barbara Hamm) A very simple encouraging song identifying us as people of hope, peace, joy, love, and Christ as the light of the world. Very easy to sing and quite heart-warming. Sheet music sample and lyrics.
  • Online Resource We light a candle for hope (Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan) Lovely lilting song "We light a candle for hope, and our world that's longing for hope"....etc. Youtube video. Sound sample, lyrics and purchase options (including accompaniment track if you want it!).
  • Online Resource Hope waits for us this Advent (Amanda Udis-Kessler) A lovely song which could be used a verse at a time for candle-lighting, or could be used only at Advent 4. Sound sample. Free sheet music and more sound samples
  • Online Resource Come we pray O God be with us (Shawn Whelan) Advent lyrics for candle-lighting which are most appropriate for Year B. Lyrics and free sheet music.
  • Online Resource Living water flowing (Jennie Gordon, Australia) Simple words focussed on a water theme for Advent, set to the familiar tune NOEL NOUVELET. New words to old tunes. Lyrics.  
  • Online Resource / VU006 A candle is burning (Sandra Dean / Douglas Simper) Lovely lyrics for candle-lighting. While the lyrics can be sung to the American tune for Away in a Manger (AWAY IN A MANGER), I much prefer them to Douglas Simper's contemporary flowing, and simple melody (in his book Singing the Journey). Also, he changes the lyrics of verse 3 so it is based in a Southern Hemisphere Christmas "As rain softens summer the green grass will grow". Lyrics (Winter version). New words to old tunes.
  • Iona (M&G) / CH359 / MV033 / ZSS54 / StJ / GtG127 / ELW253 / GA293 / SFFS 2085 / G(II)276 / GC370 / GC(II)364 / G(3)429 / CP368 / W&R402 He came down that we may have love / Jesus came bringing us hope (Traditional Cameroon) The translation in "More Voices" (Jesus came bringing...) seems particularly appropriate for Advent and it could easily work as an Advent Candle lighting song. Just sing hope, love, peace or joy, depending on the week. Would be more exciting and energetic with some African drums, rather than a quiet reflective candle lighting song. Lyrics and sound samples. Good for kids.
  • Online Resource Come let's walk the path of light (Jennie Gordon) Lovely words to the tune "Twinkle Twinkle little star" based on Isaiah 2:5; would be suitable for candle-lighting any year, and great for congregations with small children. Lyrics. New words to old tunes.
  • SP&P088 The Universe is bending (Jeremy McLeod) While not specifically an Advent candle lighting song, I think this could work for such prayers, as it is simple to change just one word every week. Lyrics (in a PDF).
  • Online Resource Shine a candle (Lucy Graham) A simple and quite lovely song that could be sung each week of Advent. Free sheet music and notes for bringing the song to life.
  • Online Resource Kindle a flame within our hearts (Philip Garside) A beautiful gentle song, with lyrics that can be altered for each week of Advent. Sheet music and lyrics.
  • GA279 / A&M56 / SP019 Word of Justice / Advent Litany (Bernadette Farrell) A good call and response for Advent, with many many verses. Only use a few each week. The cantor says one line, then the congregation response "Allelulia!", the cantor again, then "Maranatha! Sound sample.
  • Online Resource Light a candle bright and tall (David Wood) Excellent words to the tune for "As with Gladness"; a new verse for each week and one for Christmas day. I'm thinking we might sing this at home when we light our candles! Lyrics and free sheet music.  Good for older kids.
  • Online Resource (Here in this Place) In twilight's calm and gentle space / Season of Gifts (Helen Wiltshire) Based on the themes of GIFT: Grace Illumination Faith Transformation. This book doesn't seem to be available from Pilgrim Uniting Church anymore, but if you have a copy, use it!
  • CH284 / StS015 Hope is a candle once lit by the prophets (Richard Leach) Excellent words for candle lighting, including a verse for each candle and one for Christmas Day. Sung to a nice Scottish folk tune (GALLOWAY TAM). Sheet music. Lyrics.
  • MV221 I am walking a path of peace (Janet Tissandier) A simple song for a benediction or an Advent Candle Song; words can be altered to paths of love, grace, hope, joy etc. Obligato from Alan Baer. Good for kids.
  • GtG467 / STB058 Give Us Light / Jyothi dho Prabhu (Charles Vas) This song in Hindi or English is simple and repetitive and could be sung in either language (with a little teaching time). You could sing all 5 verses or just a few. It might also work during Advent as a candle lighting song, although you will need to consult with a Hindi speaker to change the lyrics. Sound sample.
  • MV220 Hope shines as the solitary star (Catherine Maclean) A nice song seeking personal growth and connection that reflects the love of Christ. It will need to be taught, but once taught it's easily sung. Lyrics.
  • Online Resource Be still and know (adapted) (Richard Schwedes) An adaptation of the old familiar tune (ATN9) with a verse for each week. Lyrics sheet New words to old tunes.
  • GA272 Maranatha Maranatha Come Lord Jesus Come (Jane Wood) A good, simple Advent chant with some nice verses and prayers to go with each week. 
  • Online Resource / VU007 / HPP109 / W&R165 / Cha132 Hope is a star / When God is a child (Brian Wren) A candle lighting song with a chorus sung each week "When God is a child there's joy in our song. The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong, and none shall be afraid". tune is a bit challenging and will need to be taught in the first, and probably the second, weeks. Lyrics and sheet music.
  • GC(II)326 Lead Us to Your Light (Carol Browning) Good advent song. You could sing one verse each week, concluding with the final verse on Christmas day. Youtube.
  • Online Resource Prepare the way of the Lord (Jeffrey Lowery / David King) An upbeat song, good for kids and teenagers, I think. The verses are kind of wordy, but they're good words. The verses follow the traditional advent themes of peace, hope, joy and love, so you could also sing it every Sunday of Advent. Youtube.
  • Online resource The Advent candle shines with hope (Jay Padgett) New words for each week of Advent to a nice traditional hymn tune (MARYTON). This would go very easily in most congregations. Best sung fairly slowly. New words to old tunes. Free sheet music.
  • Online Resource Hope is a light (Daniel Damon) A simple and quite nice Advent candle lighting song. Be careful not to let it get dirgey. Free sheet music.
  • Protest and Praise / Online Resource In our deepest grief / We wait for you (David Bjorlin / Randall Sensmeier) A beautiful song of waiting, even in sorrow and fear; not so easy to sing - I would use a soloist. Songbook for purchase. Sound sample (I prefer it to be a little more tentative than this).
  • VU599 Living Christ bring us love (Daniel Damon) A very simple song. Could be used as a Candle-lighting song during Advent. Lyrics
  • Online Resource In this time of waiting (David MacGregor) A very new song for Advent, with particular focus on the hope, joy, peace, and love to be found in Jesus. Would be very simple to sing. Lyrics. Sheet music. Backing track.
Anytime in Advent songs (some could also be used for candle-lighting, or sung each week as a theme song)
  • Online Resource / Iona (WWHW) / ACS989 God of peace / Yarrabba Ssalami (Palestinian Hymn) This is not specifically an Advent song, but it is a beautiful prayer for peace from Palestine. Can be sung in Arabic or English. Sound sample and words (including Arabic text). Sound sample with clearer pronunciation. Sheet music sample and purchasing options.
  • Online Resource Holy is the light illuming / Blessed Night Blessed Light (Craig Mitchell / Alan Hoare) A beautiful song about seeing God in the darkness as much as in the light. Sound sample, sheet music available here.
  • Online Resource Come Lord Jesus we await you (Kathy Douglass) A lovely simple meditative chant which could be used throughout Advent. Sound sample. Sheet music.
  • BUC Resource Flame of love come Holy Spirit (Julie Perrin, Helen Burnham / Julia Potter) This song is really beautiful, but not available online yet. I will get back to this at some stage. Sound sample. Good for kids.
  • Online Resource We welcome the waiting (Kathy Douglass) Another lovely simple meditative chant which could be used throughout Advent; very soothing and easy to sing. Sound sample. Sheet music.
  • GWA092 / MV019 / StS002 Maranatha Maranatha Come Lord Jesus Come (Louise Skibsted) This simple chant. It would work well if you are having a more meditative approach to the Advent season. We use this often during Advent at Brunswick.  A little sample of the sheet music, and the lyrics in both English and French.
  • Recorded Music People get ready (Curtis Mayfield) I always think of this song during Advent. It would be great to have your musicians play this. Sound sample.
  • Online Resource Come Christmas Child (Shirley Murray) A wonderful new song celebrating that Christ will come amid the pain and hurt that exists in the world. The tune is not easy - it will need to be taught, but the lyrics will make it worth the time! Lyrics and sheet music.
  • Online Resource Drawing Nearer (Christopher Grundy) An excellent contemporary song about the lack of peace within the world and within our souls, and the desire for God to "steal our hearts - like a baby". It's great. Free sheet music. Sound sample (youtube). I would use this first by a soloist, and invite the congregation to join in as they get the hang of it.
  • Online Resource Christ comes again (Barbara Hamm) Very easy to sing, and good lyrics about where Christ can be found in our everyday lives. Lyrics and sheet music
  • Online Resource Hey Mary! (Sam & Malcolm Gordon) A lovely children's song about the annunciation. It captures the surprise and the universality of God's arrival to each of us. Youtube and sheet musicGood for kids.
  • Music by Heart 59 Come light of lights (Ruth Cunningham) A lovely two-part chant that would be a nice meditative song for any week of Advent: "Come light of lights into my heart. Come wisdom of spirit into my heart". It can be sung quite slowly and meditatively, or more energetically and joyfully, depending on your context; it can also be split into a round! Two videos: A quick version and a slow version. Good for kids.
  • CH256 / VU424 / GtG765 / StF411 May the God of hope go with us every day (Alvin Schutmaat) Simple joyful song with a focus on working for peace, working with the "God of peace" who fills our lives with "love and joy and peace"; I would sing just the first verse and chorus. A good song for the end of the service; be careful it doesn't get too pedestrian or childish - think of traditional Argentinian music, which is what it is. Lyrics. Good for kids.
  • NCH121 / UMH210 / VU005 / WoV629 / ELW266 / W&R163 / Cha139 All earth is waiting / All earth is hopeful / Toda la tierra espera al Salvador (Alberto Taule) Fun Catalonian tune, good words, although the English translations vary between sources. Could be good for kids. A nice recording from Chile in Spanish. Slow and majestic organ sample and English lyrics. 
  • MV028 / StJ / FFS25 / GC(II)507 / G(3)587 God of the Bible / Fresh as the morning (Shirley Murray) Good words. I particularly like the tune by Alonso, as the chorus is really very wonderful. This is a song worth learning for Advent, but can be sung all through the year. I think this song would be a really good "fit" for our congregation. Sound sample. Lyrics.
  • AoVK-52 O Emmanuel, come into our hearts (Michael Mangan) with 3 verses. In 2008 we sang just the chorus on Advent 1, then added one verse for each week. Verse 1 “We your people are waiting for you..” Verse 2 “ We, your people are longing for you”. Verse 3 “ We your people are ready for you”. Could use a cantor for the verse and congregation join in the chorus. Would be great with good Latin or African percussion. We sang this in 2013 during Advent, and it worked well. Lyrics & sound sample. Good for kids.
  • CoC30 Look toward Christmas! (Shirley Murray) I particularly like tune (i); very joyous! A fun song looking forward to Christmas. I don’t know if it would last the distance of singing it every week before Christmas. Quite good for kids. I like the image of the angels flexing their wings! Sheet music.
  • Taize / CH276 / VU22 / GtG090 / ELW262 / GtG090 / GA283 / G(II)256 / GC332 / GC(II)340 / G(3)406 / CP094 / W&R166 / PfAS037B / SP28 / URW396 / Lau088 Wait for the Lord (Jacques Berthier) Wait for the Lord whose day is near, wait for the lord, keep watch, take heart. A lovely simple Taize chant. Sheet music, translations and sound samples.
  • StF045 Earth's creator everyday God (Bernadette Farrell) A responsive call and response chant that celebrates the everyday presence of God in all things, ending each verse with "come, be with us". This would work well during an extended period of meditation in your service. You could also choose to use it throughout Advent, choosing verses as appropriate. Lyrics and sound sample
  • CH784 Come light light of God / Lumière de Dieu (Grandchamp Community) A lovely simple chant. Would be beautiful for Advent candle lighting. Simple harmonies. Sheet music (scroll down).
  • Online Resource / GWA080 / MV045 / SP&P051 Hamba nathi (Zulu / Xhosa) There are a lot of translations of this South African song. This is the song we sang during Advent 2009 for the (usually silent) procession at the start of our worship service, and we wrote verses for each week. We sang it in Zulu followed by one line in English on the repeat. Week 1: You are holy, you show us the way. Week 2: Justice is coming, prepare the way. Week 3: Singing and shouting, we're walking the way. Week 4: We're walking to freedom, come join in the song. There are many translations of this song, even though the original language simply means "Go with us our Saviour"! Sound sample. Sheet music. Here's how it was sung for the soundtrack of Invictus. Here's another good version, with some great harmonies.  Good for kids.
  • ATFG 514 Emmanuel Carol / God of light we are waiting for you (Gael Berberick) This is probably not one to sing every week, but is definitely worth looking at as a general resource for Advent.  Sound sample.
  • MV011 / StS007 / GtG091 / GC(II)338 / G(3)405 Come, come Emmanuel / Advent gathering song (James Chepponis) The simple chant is quite lovely, and the cantor soars beautifully. It could be quite formal if you like. Can work as a chant without the cantor part; you could choose particular cantor verses for each week, or even make up your own, which is what we've done at Brunswick. At other times of year it can be used with the Cantor for confession. Slow sound sample. Sheet music sample.
  • Online Resource We live in darkness Lord (Marilyn Rummel) A simple chant that could be used for candle lighting, or at any point in an Advent service. Pay-what-you-like (or free) sheet music for download.
  • ACS905 We are waiting for Jesus (John Helgen) A simple song with quite powerful lyrics about Christ coming to bring peace; "Sun of justice shine upon us". It could be possible to use this as a Advent candle lighting song. Sound sample. Good for kids. 
  • Online Resource / Protest of Praise Prepare the way with quietness (David Bjorlin) Excellent words that pick up on Advent as a time of preparation. Sung to the well known tune LAND OF REST. Lyrics. Song book for purchase. New words to old tunes.
  • Iona (HSNW) / VU019 / A&M839 / SP326 Kindle a flame to lighten the dark and take all fear away (Iona) This song would also work well as a simple candle lighting chant during Advent in the Northern Hemisphere. Video (slow).
  • GC(II)339 When the wind of winter blows (Ruth Duck) Northern Hemisphere-specific Advent song. Best if you live somewhere where it actually snows. Sound sample.
  • GC(II)352 / G(3)442 Gift of God O Emmanuel (Marty Haugen) A nice chant-like refrain and Cantor line. Note that this one needs a cantor. Would be excellent for Advent and then Christmas day. Many verses which can be sung, so choose the most appropriate for your congregation or write your own. Sound sample. Sheet music sample.
  • HPP216 / GtG092 While We Are Waiting Come (Claire Cloniger) A lovely simple chant of anticipatory praise. Sound sample.
  • GC324 / RS 492 Here in this world where darkness surrounds us / Come O Hope of your people / Advent Gathering (Rory Cooney) Excellent questioning words. Cantor and response. Simple to sing, and quite beautiful "Show us your face, O promise of dawn". It's in 7/8 so it immediately appeals to me.... Sheet music sample.
  • Seeds of Faith Prepare the Way For Love (Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan) A good song for kids. I think it would be fun to make up additional verses for this one so it could carry through the whole of Advent. Sound sample. BUC people, I have this book. Good for kids.
  • Online Resource / Tune In Dare to Dream (Elaine Loukes) A great song about having a vision for the future, being lead by the light of Bethlehem’s star. "Dare to dream of new beginnings, Paths untried, by faith supplied".  Free downloadable songbook.
  • Online Resource / AoVK-58 We wait in hope for the Lord (Nathaniel Ford) Simple a cappella round "We wait in hope for the Lord, God is our help and our shield. And so our hearts rejoice, for we trust in God's holy name". Sound sample, sheet music sample, purchasing options. Good for kids.
  • Online Resource / STB268 / VF033 The grain is ripe (Shirley Erena Murray) Hopeful words of harvest, sung to a familiar-ish tune. It has some tricky timing, so be clear when you lead it. Lyric and sheet music.
  • Online Resource / URW424 Come Lord Jesus (Carey Landry / Carol Jean Kinghorn-Landry) An extremely simple chant that could be used in Advent. Sound sample and sheet music sample.
  • CH281 / UMH202 / VU009 / WoV626 / LBW626 / ELW248 / A&M47 / HPP83 / GtG105 / PH012 / G(II)337 / GC318 / GC(II)337 / G(3)409 / CP091 / CP(E) 35 / W&R161 / Cha142 / SP015 / VF034 People look East, the time is near (Eleanor Farjeon) Bouncy and joyful Advent song. Note that it is cold-climate Northern Hemisphere specific. Lyrics.
  • Iona (EoA) / VU33 Watch watch and pray (Iona) A very short Advent chant; could be used at various times during the service, maybe even during intercessions. Also has lyrics specific for Maundy Thursday (in VU). Sheet music sample (scroll to the end).
  • Music by Heart 63 Tar a thighearna (Ruth Cunningham) A simple and beautiful chant based on ancient Celtic words meaning "Come Lord, come thou Being". Youtube.
  • AoV2-123 / AoVK-59 Twilight then darkness (Phil Porter) A lovely Advent candle song, which could be good for Northern Hemisphere people. In the Southern Hemisphere, you could possibly use this at dinner time, if you live closer to the equator than me. Darkness comes pretty late in a Melbourne Summer. Lyrics and instrumental synthesizer sound sample.
  • AoV2-043 / ATFG520 / CoC40 / NCH538 / SFFS 2095 / GC(II)355 / G(3)449 / SP&P174 / W&R223 / ZSS63 / VF035 Star Child (Shirley Murray) A lovely lovely carol. Very easy to sing. A big favourite! Lyrics and synthesizer sound sample. Sheet music.
  • ATFG542 / CH480 Word of the Father / Come Lord Come (John Bell) A simple call and response with more verses than you need, adapt them for each week. Sound sample.
Choral works
We don't usually have a choir at Brunswick, but we often pull one together at Advent. Here are a few choral ideas.  
  • Online Resource There is a yearning / The Yearning (Craig Courtney) This is quite beautiful, and will appeal to a range of congregations, as it can be interpreted quite broadly. It has arrangements both for SATB and TTBB choirs. Sheet music & sound sample.
  • Iona Lullaby Lullaby God comes tomorrow / Advent Lullaby (John Bell) Just gorgeous. This is not necessarily a choral work - it could also be sung by a (clever) congregation, or the congregation could sing one part, accompanied by a choir. Sound sample.
  • Online Resource Light of the World (Laura Daigle) I quite like listening to Laura Daigle sing this, and the choir arrangement looks quite manageable. We did it a few years ago and it was great fun. Sheet music & sound sample.
Advent Blessings
  • SP&P201 Peace peace deep peace (Thomas) A very simple benediction, that could also work well as a blessing to someone who is leaving the congregation. Could be used creatively in Advent - by changing the verses each week (Peace, Love, Joy and Hope)

Songs and Hymns for Reign of Christ C / Christ the King C (November 23rd 2025)

Reign of Christ / Christ the King suggestions 
(reading-based suggestions follow)
  • Online Resource / Resounding Voices Christ Sophia, Child of Wisdom (Ellen Clark-King, England) Excellent words with many images of Christ "showing us God's humble kingdom" and expressing what "kingdom values" really mean. Can be sung to your favourite 878787 tune; I think it's particularly powerful with PRAISE MY SOUL. New words for old tunes. Lyrics (scroll down). Free book download here.
  • Online Resource / URW093 Christ is the Truth the Way (Ruth Duck, USA) Excellent words of the leadership of Christ, sung to the majestic tune DIADEMATA. This is just excellent for this Sunday! New words for old tunes. Sheet music sample and purchasing options.
  • NCH302 / VU212 Eternal Christ you rule (Dan Damon, USA) Challenging words about how the rule of Christ is so vastly different from the rulership of popular earthly leaders. Simple hymnlike tune. Sheet music (PDF). Lyric video.
  • TiS 728 Jesu christo reina reina ya! (Unknown, Argentina) A fun Latin American song. It's particularly fun if someone is brave enough to yell out a "call" at the start of each verse. Sound sample.
  • NCH575 / VU697 / GtG372 / PH386 / Cha683 O for a world where everyone respects (Miriam Therese Winter, USA) A song with good words sung to a well known hymn tune (AZMON). The words are a prayer for a world of peace and the reign of Christ. Lyrics. New words for old tunes.
  • TiS 721 / Iona (LFB) / URW431 / Lau124 He became poor that we may be rich (John Bell, Scotland) A simple chant. Timing is a little bit tricky, so you will need to take a little time to teach it initially. This has gorgeous parts if you have some singers. "He became poor, that we may be rich, loving the world and leaving his throne; King of all kings, and Lord of all Lords, flesh of our flesh and bone of our bone". Sound sample.
  • SiS409 / ATA 162 / A&M699 / SFFS 2075 / W&R338 / GGives2 / Srce401 / MP398 / VU167 King of kings and Lord of lords (Nomi Yah, USA / Sophie Conty, USA) This song, written by two 13 year old girls is sung to a Hasidic folk tune, this is a simple, well known round. VU also has words for Easter and Pentecost. Have fun with this. You could even do it like Petra :-). Good for kids.
  • G(II)249 / GC319 / GC(II)325 Close as tomorrow the sun shall appear / Walk in the Reign (Rory Cooney, USA) I really like this one. “Close as tomorrow the sun shall appear. Freedom is coming and healing is near. And I shall be with you in laughter and pain to stand in the wind and walk in the reign”. Nice little lyrics twist there! The 4th verse mentions specific locations (Soweto, Gdansk, Tiannemen Square, The Bronx), which you could retain or change, as you feel appropriate. This sound sample gives it a bit of a gospel feel. Sheet music and lyrics.
  • ELW610 O Christ What Can It Mean for us (Delores Dufner, USA) Excellent questioning lyrics. Sung to an older hymn tune, that's not familiar to me, but you could use these lyrics to a wide range of tunes if you like them. New words for old tunes. Lyrics and sheet music. 
  • TiS 185 Alleluia / We praise you God Creator Lord (John McIntyre) A chanted Alleluia based on Pachelbel's canon, coupled with some nice affirmations of faith from a 2nd part of the congregation, or cantor. This is quite lovely. Sound sample (instrumental) with lyrics.
  • CH289 / GC(II)341 Lift up your heads eternal gates (Georg Weissel, Germany / John Bell, Scotland) I like how this reworking of the old standard turns the violent battle kingly God image on its head and points to Christ instead. "God's catchless and majestic strength in all its height, depth, breadth, and length, now is revealed its power to prove, by Christ protesting "God is love!". The tune is a lovely old medieval-style tune, which should not be difficult. The chorus has been written in 4 parts which would be great if you can get some singers to sing the parts, or teach your congregation the chorus before the service starts. The parts for the chorus are very simple. Sound sample. Lyrics and lead sheet.
Jeremiah 23:1-6
Bringing together the remnants of the flock; Looking forward to a world that is just
  • TiS474 / AoV1-012 / ATE 295 / CH623 / SFFS 2236 / HPP553 / A&M363 / GtG401 / G(II)539 / GC839 / GC(II)743 / G(3)848  / CP465 / W&R649 / Cha284 / SP175 / URW054 / Lau475 / LUYH529 Here in this place new light is streaming / Gather us in (Marty Haugen, USA)  Excellent words, very well known. “Nourish us well and teach us to fashion lives that are holy and hearts that are true”. Lyrics and lead sheet.
  • AoV2-139 / GA525 / SP&P045 Gather us O God Body spirit soul and mind (Monica Brown, Australia) Very simple song. Would work well as a gathering chant. "Gather us O God, Body, spirit, soul and mind. Gather us, O God, One in union now with you"; can also be used to send out "Send us out O God...". Lyrics and sound sample
  • MV007 Gather us in ground us in you (David Hann) A simple chant which would be great for a quieter invitation to worship. Also works in French. Good for kids
  • AoV1-071 / GA530 / GC(II)742 / G(3)837 / Lau462 Gather Your People (Bob Hurd, USA) Excellent eucharistic theology; it's very Lordy. Sound sample. Lyric and sheet music sample.
Luke 1:68-79
Zechariah’s prophecy for John the Baptist before his birth. The call to prophecy. John is born and lives in the wilderness. Waiting.
  • TiS 265 / AHB 193 / AoV1-174 / NCH116 / CH273 / UMH211 / VU001 / LBW034 / ELW283 / GA285 / HPP92 / PH009 / GC317 / GC(II)323 / G(3)395 / CP089 / CP(E) 32 / W&R154 / Cha119 / 82Hml-056 / Lau112 / StF180 / MP493 O come O come Emmanuel (Psaleroilum Cantionum Catholicarum) A very well known ancient Advent carol. Most versions are pretty inclusive. Lyrics and history. Sheet music. There are also two alternate versions (one by Sue Wickham and one by John Henson), set to the same tune, but with more modern lyrics and ideas. See the Facebook Group for lyrics. Oldy-but-a-goody.
  • Online Resource / Protest of Praise Advent begins in the darkness of night (David Bjorlin / Benjamin Brody) A haunting tune and beautiful words of Advent beginning in a place of darkness. Sheet music preview, sound sample, and purchasing options.  
  • Online Resource / Tune In Longing for you (Elaine Loukes) A simple chant of longing for God; "Call to us lead us on". Free downloadable songbook and sound samples.
  • PfAS1014 In the tender compassion of our God (Mark Mummert)  Using the refrain on its own would work best; verses could be cantored, or read.
  • Taizé  / AoV2-089 / MV086 / SFFS 2156 Give peace to every heart / Da Pacem Cordium (Jacques Berthier) A good, simple Taizé chant. Sound samples, sheet music (not cantor lines though)
  • ATFG 514 Emmanuel Carol / God of light we are waiting for you (Gael Berberick) This is a lovely simple Advent song, and easy to pick up I think. Sample sheet music.
  • Iona (M&G) / CH359 / MV033 / ZSS54 / StJ / GtG127 / ELW253 / GA293 / SFFS 2085 / G(II)276 / GC370 / GC(II)364 / G(3)429 / CP368 / W&R402 He came down that we may have love / Jesus came bringing us hope (Traditional Cameroon) The translation in "More Voices" (Jesus came bringing...) seems particularly appropriate for Advent. A lovely simple song - you can make up words and have a lot of fun with this if you also use some drums. Lyrics and sound samples. Good for kids.
  • NCH110 / G(II)561 / GC775 / GC(II)5 / G(3)103 / Lau008 Now bless the God of Israel who comes in love and power (Ruth Duck) Good words of salvation based directly on this passage. Sung to the familiar tune FOREST GREEN. Sheet music and lyrics. New words to old tunes
  • TiS 284 / VU901 / ELW552 / W&R158 / GtG109 / Cha135 / URW012 / Lau008 Blessed be the God of Israel / O Bless the God of Israel (Michael Perry) Good words of Christ as the fulfiller of the prophets who will set God's people free From fear and darkness. Be aware that some versions (like TiS) use exclusively masculine language for God. URW and Chalice are inclusive. Set to the simple tune MERLE'S TUNE. New words to old tunes  You could also use Cha137 which uses just the first line refrain of the above, with a responsive reading. Lyrics.
  • Online Resource / PH601 / WoV725 / PfAS1032 / URW010 Blest be the God of Israel (Song of Zechariah) (Carl Daw) A simple and inclusive paraphrase to the well-known hymn tune KINGSFOLD (TiS 262). Lyrics and sheet music. New words to old tunes 
  • TiS 279 / AHB 212 / SFFS 2091 / HPP158 / GC487 / GC(II)494 / CP632 / Lau107 The King of glory comes the nation rejoices (Willard Jabusch) Fun and energetic song to a traditional Israeli folk melody. A good processional. Lyrics and chords. Oh, and of course, Stephen Colbert's dance moves. Good for kids.
  • ACS903 / AoV1-061 / ATOK 355 / GtG359 / SFFS 2194 / G(II)521 / GC723 / GC(II)707 / G(3)814 / ZSS110 / SgTJ1035 Freedom is coming (South African) Excellent and lots of fun, especially if you have a keen African-style drummer in your congregation. It's really worth teaching the parts to your congregation before the service. It can get a bit confusing for the congregation otherwise. A range of sound samples (Youtube). History of the song. Sheet music samples. Good for kids.
  • Online Resource / Tune in We are the dream that's longing / Jesus is waiting. (Dave Brown) An honest catchy rock song about our hesitation to follow and Jesus not only waiting, but continuing to work and change the world. A good sending-out song. Free downloadable songbook and sound samples.
  • ACS904 / TiS 688 Come to be our hope O Jesus / Tú Jesús, nuestra esperanza (Jaci Marachin) This is a really fun Latin American song from the World Council of Churches Assembly in Canberra. It's not easy the first time, but once you've heard it, it's very catchy. The words are really excellent, despite a slightly clunky translation. It would be worth teaching to your congregation! We sang this a couple of times during Advent. Sound sample with a great guitar line. Here's another quite different version. Good for kids.
Alternative to the Luke reading: Psalm 46
God our refuge and strength, even in the midst of disaster
  • GWA130 / StF381 Holy Spirit breath of heaven (Geraldine Latty, England) A simple and beautiful song asking the spirit to breathe us to a quiet stillness, so that we can find our place with God. Sound sample (instrumental).
  • Online Resource Be still slow down breathe in breathe out (Wendell Kimbrough) This is just beautiful and a good call to slow down and worship. Sound sample. Sheet music for purchase
  • Online Resource Come watch for the green that shows after a fire (Hannah Brown) Beautiful words about renewal, set to the familiar tune COLUMCILLE. Sheet music sample and lyrics and purchasing options. New words to old tunes
  • Tune In / Online Resource You in all our worries / All will finish well (Dave Brown) “In this world where injustice reigns, you are in the midst of pain”. Excellent words of reassurance in a difficult world. Sound sample, lyrics and free downloadable songbook.
  • Tune in / Online Resource The God that I Know (Sheree Anderson) A beautiful ballad with female and male images of a loving, embracing God. Sound sample, lyrics and free downloadable songbook.
  • Online Resource / Iona (T1AU) / URW408 On God alone I wait silently (John Bell) Simple and lovely chant or psalm refrain. Could work well with kids to help them to be calm and still and waiting-like. Sound sample, and purchasing options.
  • Online Resource / CH716 / VU374 / FFS10 / SFFS 2128 / W&R477 / Cha575 Come and find the quiet centre (Shirley Murray, New Zealand) A good song for the beginning of worship. I would prefer to sing this to one of the more traditional melodies offered (Tune 1 in FFS) or BEACH SPRING (TiS 493). New words to old tunes. Lyrics and sheet music.
  • Emergent Psalter / PfAS046D The Lord of hosts is with us (Isaac Everett, USA) Simple and haunting refrain. Sheet music sample.
  • Linnea Good Come and ponder everything (Linnea Good, Canada) A quiet meditative chant of only these 4 words to be sung as a refrain to the reading over background music. Quite a different take on the psalm; would be good to provide some space in the worship service to include this.
  • CH289 / GC(II)341 Lift up your heads eternal gates (Georg Weissel, Germany / John Bell, Scotland) I like how this reworking of the old standard turns the violent battle kingly God image on its head and points to Christ instead. "God's catchless and majestic strength in all its height, depth, breadth, and length, now is revealed its power to prove, by Christ protesting "God is love!". The tune is a lovely old medieval-style tune, which should not be difficult. The chorus has been written in 4 parts which would be great if you can get some singers to sing the parts, or teach your congregation the chorus before the service starts. The parts for the chorus are very simple. Sound sample. Lyrics and lead sheet.
  • MV084 In you there is a refuge (Keri Wehlander / Linnea Good) A simple quiet song. "In you there is a silence, in you our minds are clear. When all we hear is discord may your quiet draw us near". Sound sample.
  • TiS 103 / AHB 8 / TOSB002 / NCH439 / CH454 / UMH110 / VU262 / LBW228 / LBW229 / ELW505 / HPP382 / PH259,260 / GtG275 / GC607 / GC(II)594 / G(3)687 / CP(E) 366 / W&R507 /  Cha065 / Srce2-27 / URW271 / 82Hml-687 A mighty fortress is our God / A safe stronghold our God is still (Martin Luther) Old words, lots of devils in this; could work if you did a poetic reading of it. Translations are very varied; the only words I would enjoy singing myself are in NCH and Chalice hymnal. Lyrics and sheet music. Oldy-but-a-goody. Or you could use the following two options:
  • VU770 / Cha742 A mighty fortress is our God (2 lines only) (Martin Luther) Nice use of the hymn as a simple refrain to a responsive Psalm reading. If you like the old hymn, but aren't sure you want to use all the lyrics, this could be good option.Oldy-but-a-goody.
  • VU789 / Cha738 A mighty fortress is our God (Response) (Martin Luther) Responsive psalm with sung refrain of the first line of "A mighty fortress". This version is even shorter than the last one. Oldy-but-a-goody.
  • Online Resource / Resounding Voices There are more waters rising (Saro Lynch-Thomason) A simple, catchy protest song about waters rising, fires burning, and mountains falling, and our ability to struggle through it. Teaching video. Free book download here.
  • Online Resource / Taizé / TiS 739 / AoV2-041 / ATOK 404 / VU290 / GA269 / SFFS 2054 / GtG820 / G(II)451 / GC639 / GC(II)626 / G(3)733 / CP568 / W&R421 / URW388 / Lau947 / LUYH444/ VF088 Nothing Can Trouble / Nada te turbe (Theresa of Avila / Taizé) Excellent and quite well known Taizé chant. Spanish lyrics are not too hard for non-Spanish speakers. Sheet music, sound samples, lyrics and translations. Good for kids.
  • TiS 560 / AHB 465 / NCH408 / CH192 / UMH132 / VU654/655 / WoV782 / ELW757 / A&M584 / CP529 / CP(E) 368 / Cha088 / Srce2-15 / 82Hml-665 / Lau959 / StF455 / MP016 All my hope on God is founded / is firmly grounded (Joachim Neander) Most translations of this well known German hymn are not inclusive, but the NCH and WoV are, so if you have those books (BUC people, we have NCH and WoV). Sheet music and older version of the lyrics. Oldy-but-a-goody.
  • Online Resource Rest your body still your mind (David Bjorlin / Benjamin Brody) This is an excellent acapella round which would work well at the start of a service or as an introduction to reading the scriptures. It also has a version of the lyrics for a Benediction. You could use both! Sample sheet music, lyrics and purchasing options. Youtube.
  • AoV2-054 / Iona (T1AU, LFB) / MV077 /  GtG414 / SFFS 2057 / G(II)438 / GC618 / RS 736 / SP&P111 / PfAS046D / URW409 / Lau909 / StF019 Be still and know that I am God (John Bell / Graham Maule) This simple chant is beautiful. Works as a round or in unison. Sound sample. Good for kids.
  • ATN 9 / NCH743 / CH755 / W&R450 / Srce68 / StF018 / MP048 Be Still and Know (Unknown author) This is the old classic. Sources vary in the verses they have and the level of inclusiveness in the lyrics.  
  • Online Resource Be still and know that I am God (David Kai) A simple chorus, and quite quick upbeat verses. Would be good to teach the chorus only to the congregation initially. Sung as a chant it is particularly lovely. Sheet music, sound samples.
  • FFS04 Be still my heart (John Murray) A good opening to worship. With two possible simple tunes. "Be still my heart, my mind, my busy world that I may hear God's word". Lyrics.
  • ATOK 311 / CH754 / GA401 Be still and know that I am God and there is none beside me (Iona) A good alternative. I like the 2nd verse especially "I am the one who calls you my friends, and there is none beside me". CH doesn't have the 2nd verse.
  • CH037 God is our refuge God our strength (Church Hymnary) This is a better version of this old song from the Scottish Psalter.
  • TiS 683 / WoV735 / ELW603 / W&R416 / StF649 God when human bonds are broken (Fred Kaan) These words pick up an unusual theme, and fit really well with this reading. There are a couple of possible tunes, none of which are immediately familiar, but they are not difficult either. Lyrics.
  • Online Resource / WoV768 / ELW737 / CP456 / W&R412 He comes to us as one unknown (Timothy Dudley-Smith) Great words to a very familiar hymn tune (REPTON). Lyrics and sheet music sample.
  • TiS 47 / AHB 46 / AoV1-175 / NCH25 / CH161 / UMH117 / VU806 / LBW504 / ELW806 / GA459 / A&M746 / HPP1 / GtG687 / PH210 / GC614 / GC(II)588 / G(3)688 / CP528 / CP(E) 537 / W&R84 / Cha067 /  Srce2-441 / URW200 / 82Hml-680 / PfAS090B / Lau955 / StF132 / MP498 O God our help in ages past (Isaac Watts) A good solid very well known hymn! The surprising thing about this one is that the language is inclusive for God in most sources. Not all sources are inclusive for humanity, so check. Lyrics and sheet music. Oldy-but-a-goody.
  • MV163 River running in you and me (Ian Macdonald / Gordon Light) Terrific words with lots of river imagery, a song of the spirit, and of challenge when times are hard. If this is not familiar, just get a soloist to sing it while the congregation joins in the last line "River run deep, river run free". The verses are not metrical, so it will take more time to sing them with confidence. Sound sample.
  • Online Resource / GWA168 Still my soul be still (Keith Getty, Northern Ireland / Kristyn Getty, Northern Ireland / Stuart Townend, Scotland) This is a beautiful, soothing song about trusting in God. Not easy for a congregation to sing, but they may like to join in the chorus until it becomes familiar. Lyric video. Sheet music and sound files for purchase.
Colossians 1:11-20
A hymn in praise of Christ.
  • You may wish to sing an Alleluia. Some are listed here.
  • Online Resource / ELW431 O Christ What Can It Mean for us (Delores Dufner) Excellent words sung to a range of familiar tunes (I like KINGSFOLD). Lyrics, sheet music sample and purchasing options.
  • NCH118 / VU061 / Cha104 Of God's very heart begotten / Of eternal love begotten / Of the Parent's heart begotten (Aurelius Prudentius Clemens) These are inclusive translations of the 3rd century Latin hymn Corde natus ex parentis (older versions are "Of the Father's love begotten"). New English translation to old tunes. Lyrics (older version).
  • CH389 Behold the holy Lamb of God! / Mwana Mwerere (Malawi hymn) This will take some practice, I think. A song with a Cantor and response; you will need a small group to lead the congregation in the response. Sound sample.
  • Brunswick Song Project Love is the Power (Sheree Anderson) Suggestion for the congregation at Brunswick as this is not published yet, but it is in our church folders. It’s a while since we've sung it, but it went down well last time. It's a little bit tricky.
  • NCH104 We hail you God's anointed (James Montgomery) Joyous song of Christ enthroned and bringing justice and love. Lyric video. Oldy but a goody
  • TiS 345 / AHB 261 / AoV1-103 / NCH229 / UMH288 / VU144 / LBW81 / ELW353 / GA336 / A&M144 / HPP185 / GtG228 / PH102 / G(II)302 / GC416 / GC(II)438 / G(3)511 / CP192 / CP(E) 126 / W&R283 / Cha198 / 82Hml-172 / Lau225 / StF285 / MP745 Were you there when they crucified my Lord? (African-American) A classic - well known, beautiful to sing and listen to. Lyrics and sheet music. And a youtube of Paul Robeson
  • Online Resource / AA036 Every day I will offer you (Shirley Murray) “Everyday, in your Spirit, I’ll find the love and energy”… Good song of commitment. Might be good as closing song. This is also in other books of songs by Shirley Murray. Lyrics & Sheet Music.
  • BUC Song Project Well I'm going to see my King (Matthew Lees) This song is a fun gospel song in two parts. It may need to be taught so the congregation knows whether they are singing the lead or the response. I think it would sound great if the congregation learns the response part. Could work well with kids, especially if you focus just on one verse.
  • Online Resource / AoVK-28 / ATOK 376 Faith hope and love (Tricia Watts) "Freedom for all, this is what we long for!" This is so easy, and so cool. If you have some groovy musicians, this can even be a very funky rock song. Very easy, and great for kids and non-readers. Sound sample and purchasing options. Good for kids.
  • Online Resource / W&R104 / URW102 Hidden Christ Alive for Ever (Brian Wren) Wonderful and inspiring words of Christ in all things. Can be sung to HYFRYDOL or HOLY MANNA, so would be easily sung by most congregations. A good song for just after the sermon. Lyrics and sheet musicNew words to old tunes.
  • TiS 691 Faith will not grow from words alone (Elizabeth Smith) Excellent strong words of a questioning faith to a familiar hymn tune. Lyrics. New words to old tunes.
  • TiS 157 / AHB 103 / CH246 / A&M547 / PH297 / CP411 / CP(E) 263 O Lord of every shining constellation / Great God of every shining constellation (Albert Bayly) Great words; the tune in the Australian hymnals (NORTHBROOK) is a little tricky. Note that AHB is masculine for all people, so look up other sources for inclusive language. Sound sample.
  • Online Resource / FFS08 Broken the body (Shirley Murray) Good words of a broken body of Christ and a broken Church seeking healing, unity and courage. Lyrics and sheet music.
  • TiS 688 Come to be our hope O Jesus / Tú Jesús, nuestra esperanza (Jaci Marachin) This is a really fun Latin American song from the World Council of Churches Assembly in Canberra. It's not easy the first time, but once you've heard it, it's very catchy. The words are really excellent, despite a slightly clunky translation. It would be worth teaching to your congregation! We sang this a couple of times during Advent. Sound sample.
  • TiS 617 / NCH413 / UMH517 / WoV736 / ELW626 / A&M605 / GtG818 / PH342 / W&R75 / 82Hml-695 / Lau428 By gracious powers so wonderfully sheltered (Dietrich Bonhoeffer) Wonderful words. Lousy tune (in TiS). Words fit well to O Perfect Love if you find the tune too tricky. Can also be sung to BERLIN or INTERCESSOR. The 5th verse is omitted in some hymnals. Lyrics.New words to old tunes. There is also a very nice contemporary tune for the same words by Douglas Simper in his book Singing the Journey.  It makes the words feel much more relevant sung to this tune, but it will need to be taught, or sung by a soloist.
  • TiS 720 / AHB 295 / AoVK-85 / AoV2-046 / ATOK 319 / NCH236 / Iona (Many & Great, There is one among us) / CH345 / VU958 / StJ / A&M836 / SFFS 2026 / HPP571 / GtG591 / GC(II)261 / G(3)329 / W&R005 / Cha041 / ZSS76 / SP324 / PfAS150G / URW370 / Lau178 Halle halle hallelujah (Traditional Caribbean) A good Alleluia would work well for this passage, and I think this one is particularly excellent – simple, great for kids, good rhythm. PfAS uses it as a Psalm refrain which would work well for any translation of the Psalm. Good for kids. Jazzy version with old school verses that are kind of odd, but the piano player is awesome. A more regular version.
  • Iona (WWHW) / StF049   God beyond all names never fully known  (John Bell) A beautiful peaceful chant. It works best if you can do it as a round (or with just the soprano and tenor parts) or with all four parts. Mysterious. "Mystery of mysteries, calling us your own".
Luke 23:33-43
The crucifixion
  • Tune In / Online Resource A grain of wheat (Sheree Anderson) Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it won't form roots and grow. A boppy song with deeply meaningful lyrics. Free downloadable songbook and sound samples.  
  • TiS 617 / NCH413 / UMH517 / WoV736 / ELW626 / A&M605 / GtG818 / PH342 / W&R75 / 82Hml-695 / Lau428 By gracious powers so wonderfully sheltered (Dietrich Bonhoeffer / Fred Pratt Green) Wonderful words by Bonhoeffer, but most tunes that this has been set to are a bit tricky (INTERCESSOR or HIGHWOOD). I quite like the tune in NCH (BONHOEFFER). The 5th verse is omitted in some hymnals. Lyrics. New words to old tunes.  There is also a very nice contemporary tune for the same words by Douglas Simper in his book Singing the Journey.  It makes the words feel much more relevant sung to this tune, but it will need to be taught, or sung by a soloist.
  • Online Resource / URW093 Christ is the Truth the Way (Ruth Duck) Excellent words of the leadership of Christ, sung to the majestic tune DIADEMATA. Sample and purchasing options. New words to old tunes
  • MV 145 / CP418 / SP&P123 Draw the circle wide (Gordon Light) A great song about welcoming all people. Chorus is “Draw the circle wide, draw it wider still. Let this be our song, no-one stands alone, standing side by side, draw the circle wide”. Lyric video.
  • TiS 720 / AHB 295 / AoVK-85 / AoV2-046 / ATOK 319 / NCH236 / Iona (Many & Great, There is one among us) / CH345 / VU958 / StJ / A&M836 / SFFS 2026 / HPP571 / GtG591 / GC(II)261 / G(3)329 / W&R005 / Cha041 / ZSS76 / SP324 / PfAS150G / URW370 / Lau178 Halle halle hallelujah (Traditional Caribbean) A good Alleluia would work well for this passage, and I think this one is particularly excellent – simple, great for kids, good rhythm. PfAS uses it as a Psalm refrain which would work well for any translation of the Psalm. Good for kids. Sound sample.
  • TiS 626 / AHB 557 / CH500 / GA423 / Lau869 Lord of creation to you be all praise! (Jack Winslow) A wonderful traditional, and quite inclusive, hymn to the familiar tune SLANE. Lyrics. Oldy-but-a-goody.
  • TiS 185 Alleluia We praise you God Creator Lord (John Charles McIntyre) A chanted Alleluia based on Pachelbel's canon, coupled with some nice affirmations of faith from a 2nd part of the congregation, or cantor. This is quite lovely.
  • NCH398 / MV044 / W&R599 / URW072 Shadow and Substance (Daniel Damon) Good clear words of being Christ's community in all our diversity. A simple tune. Sample sheet music.
  • Online Resource / NCH302 / VU212 Eternal Christ you rule (Daniel Damon)  Challenging words about how the rule of Christ is so vastly different from the rulership of popular earthly leaders. Simple hymnlike tune. Lyrics and sheet music sample.
  • Online Resource / Taizé  / TiS 730 / AoV1-152 / ATOK 387 / CH775 / UMH488 / WoV740 / ELW616 / GA308 / A&M838 / HPP214 / GtG227 / PH599 / G(II)293 / GC404 / GC(II)422 / G(3)510 / W&R285 / Cha569 / URW382 / Lau253 / StF777 Jesus remember me (Jacques Berthier) A beautiful chant, but we have not sung it often. Sheet music and sound samples.
  • TiS 357 / ATA 147 When his time was over the palms lay where they fell / When our life began again (Robin Mann) Beautiful and mournful. Lyrics.
  • Online Resource / CH348 / StS001 / LBW196 / ELW843 / A&M762 / G(3)625 / CP397 / W&R93 / SP304 / URW090 Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness (Rusty Edwards) Good words of Christ's ministry to all. Can be sung to the familiar tune NETTLETON, or the less familiar and very lovely tune JOEL. Lyrics and sheet music. New words to old tunes
  • Online Resource / TiS 356 / CH385 / Cha203 / StF273 Here hangs a man discarded (Brian Wren) Excellent words including “Can such a clown of sorrows still bring a useful word where faith and love seem phantoms and every hope absurd?”. Also works very well with TiS 339 (Passion Chorale) if your congregation is scared of new tunes. Lyrics and sheet music. New words to old tunes.
  • Tune In / Online Resource In the shape of a cross (Dave Brown) A cry to God for help and a call for God to enter our world. Free downloadable songbook and sound samples.
  • Tune In / Online Resource See our God with the tear-streaked face / Our God who weeps (Kate Scull) Very simple folk tune and challenging and hopeful lyrics. Free downloadable songbook and sound samples.
  • Worldmaking.net O Christ, Lamb of God (Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan) A more modern Agnus Dei, with Christ sharing our weakness. Lyrics and sound sample.
  • Protest and Praise / Online Resource Two trees rose from the garden ground (David Bjorlin / Benjamin Brody) A reflection on trees which starts with the choice of the tree of good and tree of evil, leads to the tree on which Jesus dies, and ends with the restoration of Eden. Lyrics, sheet music sample and purchasing options
Do you have some suggestions? I'd love to hear them. Please add them in a comment below!