Top Christmas Songs #2

In the last blog, I listed five of my top ten Christmas songs, and below you will find the other five. (And while you read, go ahead and listen - we've saved these all on a Spotify playlist for you! Tom's Favorite Christmas Songs) 

Beyond being a fun exercise, it can also be a helpful exercise to gain a clearer vision for music at your parish. When you step back and evaluate music and what it does to your heart and soul personally, it reminds you of how powerful music is. As we understand the power music has on our hearts and souls, it helps us clarify what impact we want for the people who come to worship with us. Music has an incredible ability to move people’s hearts and souls, but we have to be intentional about it and always be evaluating the options. I’d encourage you to put together your own list as a fun exercise and then think about what it says for your vision for music at your parish.

Below are my top five sacred worship songs:

Number Five: "Here Comes Heaven" by Elevation Church

This is a modern worship song. It is the best one I have heard and the only modern one on the list. It moves from quiet and reflective to explosive and uplifting. One of the best reflective lines is “Sinner weep no more; love has broken the silence.” On the explosive and uplifting side, “Darkness rains no more for Jesus is Greater; he is GREATER!” So inspiring.

In 2022, we played it as an offertory song. I am hoping we can bring it back as a communion song next Advent.

Number Four: "Silent Night" by Bing Crosby

I debated putting Silent night on the list. It felt too easy, and I don’t know if there is one version or rendition I would go to. But upon reflection, it seemed wrong to not make it a part of this list. For a recorded version, I will go with Bing Crosby. He is the first voice I hear.

My favorite opportunity to sing Silent Night is at our Christmas Eve Mass. It’s a very powerful moment as we light candles and give everyone an opportunity to sing this iconic Christmas song with thousands of other faithful people. To see last year’s Christmas Eve Mass, check out: Nativity's Silent Night.  After watching, you might be convinced to do something similar at your parish.

Number Three: "O, Come All Ye Faithful" by Chris Tomlin

I hesitated to name Chris Tomlin’s version because my top three are all Chris Tomlin, but it is the best. He ends his version with a soaring, “We will praise your name forever, Christ the Lord.”

Number Two: "What Child is This?" by Chris Tomlin

This version of this song is just so haunting. It paints so well the longing we have that is part of the Christmas season. My favorite line from this hymn is “The king of kings salvation brings; let loving hearts enthrone him.” Then the acapella at the end with “Nails, spear shall pierce him through, the cross he bore for me and you.” It is so beautiful. A second-place version of the song is Mahalia Jackson’s rendition.

Number One: "O Holy Night" by Chris Tomlin

My favorite Christmas Carol has been O Holy Night for a long time. The line “a thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices” is so moving. Growing up, my favorite version was from Nat King Cole, but Chris Tomlin replaced him. I wait to play this close to Christmas and always tear up when I hear it the first few times. I would love to have it at Nativity, but Father Michael has banned it, so Chris Tomlin’s version will have to do. If you wonder why he banned it, give me an e-mail at [email protected], and I’ll share the story.

That’s my list, maybe you have your own list as well. I’d encourage you to make a list if you don't. It’s fun, and it also helps reveal your faith journey and how God speaks to your heart.

Rooting for you,
Tom