Love’s Comfort and Joy: New Anthems for CHRISTMAS Thursday, October 30, 2025
recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral Music Specialist
Love’s Comfort and Joy arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano
This warm setting of the classic GREENSLEEVES tune soon transitions to a familiar Christmas melody coupled with a festive text to “spread the news that to all that Love is born today.” Lloyd Larson’s careful craftsmanship results in this singable, creative anthem perfect for use during the Christmas season.
Come Near to the Manger arr. Mark Hayes, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
You can almost see the dimly lit stable as this anthem gently begins. With the rich and warm arranging talents of Mark Hayes, the familiar carols heard in this manger medley take on a new sheen. Add (optional) children’s voices and/or the exquisite orchestration for a delicate and beautiful moment.
Sing We Noel by Mary McDonald, SATB with piano
From the delicate beginning to its ascendant and uplifting conclusion, “Sing We Noel” offers a heartfelt and heroic response to the birth of Christ. With a verse telling of the coming of kings to worship the Christ, this anthem is also quite appropriate for Epiphany. Regardless of where this anthem is utilized, it will move and inspire.
This Child Shall Be Our Peace by Molly Ijames, SATB with piano
“…An echo in her memory of ancient prophecies: this Child of Mary’s labor, this Child shall be our peace.” Eileen Berry’s poignant text, based on Micah 5, is exquisitely set for choir and piano by Molly Ijames. A meaningful addition to the Christmas repertoire.
Christ Is Born Today! (Good Christian Friends, Rejoice) arr. Lloyd Larson, SATB with piano (optional 4-hand)
Celebrate the joy of the season with this vibrant setting of the cherished carol. Perfect for worship services, concerts, and seasonal events, this lively setting combines festive energy with fresh harmonies and creative musical moments.
Celebrate the Child arr. Stan Pethel, 2-part mixed (optional SATB) with piano
This Michael Card song has become a modern classic. In the capable hands of seasoned composer/arranger Stan Pethel, the song shines with its singable Two-Part (opt. SATB) voicing and interpolation of the festive “O Come, All Ye Faithful” with a touch of syncopation. Driving and truly celebrative!
Sleep, Child of Light arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano
Taking familiar tunes and pairing them anew and creatively with beloved texts is a hallmark of the creative genius of Mary McDonald. Here, she has created a satisfying and warm manger medley using familiar carol threads to weave a tapestry that is both tender and triumphant.
O Holy Light by Mary McDonald, SATB with piano
Beginning intimately, yet expansively to match the majesty of the Holy Night of Christ’s birth, this offering then soars. Mary McDonald’s amazing and natural talents as a composer, arranger, and lyricist are on full display in service to the powerful message she proclaims. Stunning!
In Bethlehem by Erik Dewar, SATB with piano and optional string quartet & percussion
An original Christmas hymn by Erik Dewar (co-arranged with Dan Forrest), “In Bethlehem” is a vivid and heartfelt picture of the Christmas story. Fresh takes on the Christmas narrative combine with angels’ Alleluias in an anthem that is both modern and timeless in its text and setting.
See Amid the Winter’s Snow arr. Mary McDonald, SATB with piano and optional orchestra
Mary McDonald’s impressive craftsmanship shines in this elegant setting of the traditional carol. Beginning with a delicate, expressive opening, the arrangement gradually builds through harmonic and rhythmic variations into a symphonic spectacle, culminating in a powerful conclusion.
Silent Night arr. Molly Ijames, SATB with piano and optional flute and/or string quartet & congregation
Part of the Beckenhorst Congregational Anthem Series, this lush setting of “Silent Night” from Molly Ijames works equally well as a simple SATB anthem with optional congregation, or a congregational hymn with extra beauty and choral descant.
Christmastime (with Angels We Have Heard on High) arr. Lloyd Larson, SSA with piano and optional orchestra & handbells
Based on the original Michael W. Smith Christmas song, this celebratory anthem is teeming with energy and joy. Arranger Lloyd Larson blends in “Angels We Have Heard on High” and offers and optional Children’s or Unison Choir part providing the opportunity for this to be an intergenerational offering for Christmas worship or concert settings.
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About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 20 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church, and sings in the First Church Choir and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her standard long haired dachshunds, Lukas and Thursday.