What are your go-to christmas songs for church when you’re planning the most important Sunday of the year?
Three Decembers ago I was sitting in our room. My husband was at his desk preparing for the Christmas program. I was supposed to be finalizing the worship setlist. Instead, I was staring at my laptop, paralyzed by choice.
We’ve been in ministry since I was a child. Yet every year, this moment still gets me. I want to give Jesus the best birthday party possible. He deserves our very best celebration, doesn’t He?
But finding the right mix of songs that honor Him while engaging the congregation? That’s where I always get stuck.
Maybe you know this feeling too. You want Christmas Sunday to be special. You want the music to reflect the wonder of what we’re celebrating. But you’re also juggling a dozen other ministry responsibilities.
Time is short. Energy is shorter. And you need a solid plan, like, yesterday.
That’s exactly why I created this playlist. I’m a lover of music, and I wanted something practical. Something you could use year after year. A collection filled with both classics and really great modern songs. No more scrolling endlessly through options or second-guessing your choices.
This list is my gift to you. Twenty beautiful, meaningful christmas songs for church that will help you create a worship experience worthy of our Savior’s birth.
1. O Holy Night – Celine Dion or Josh Groban
This is one of the best christmas songs for church, period. The lyrics declare Christ’s glory with breathtaking beauty. “Fall on your knees, O hear the angel voices” never fails to create a sacred moment.
Both Celine Dion and Josh Groban offer powerful, worshipful versions. Their renditions work beautifully for special music or congregational reflection. The song’s range makes it perfect for showcasing talented vocalists in your church.
It’s a classic that transcends generations and always points hearts toward Jesus.
2. Mary, Did You Know? – Pentatonix or CeCe Winans
This modern christian christmas song asks questions that draw us deeper into the incarnation. Mary’s story becomes personal and profound through these lyrics.
Pentatonix offers a contemporary arrangement that younger congregants love. CeCe Winans brings a gospel richness that’s absolutely stunning. Either version works wonderfully for christmas songs for church worship.
The contemplative nature invites everyone to pause and truly consider the miracle of Emmanuel.
3. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing – Traditional or Chris Tomlin
You can’t go wrong with this timeless hymn. It’s theologically rich and deeply singable. “God and sinners reconciled” captures the gospel in one perfect line.
Traditional versions honor the song’s heritage beautifully. Chris Tomlin’s modern arrangement adds fresh energy while keeping the integrity. This is perfect for congregational singing during your christmas songs for church service.
Everyone knows it, everyone loves it, and it glorifies Jesus completely.
4. O Come, O Come Emmanuel – Audrey Assad or Shane & Shane
This Advent song builds anticipation beautifully leading into Christmas. The minor key creates a sense of longing that resonates deeply.
Audrey Assad’s version is hauntingly beautiful and contemplative. Shane & Shane bring a worshipful intensity that’s incredibly powerful.
It’s one of those popular christmas songs for church that works for both traditional and contemporary services. The ancient lyrics remind us why Jesus’ birth matters so profoundly.
5. Go Tell It On The Mountain – Gospel Choir Arrangement
This is a phenomenal choice from any black gospel christmas songs list. The energy is contagious and the message is clear. Jesus Christ is born, and that’s news worth shouting!
The call-and-response style makes it perfect for christmas songs for church choir. Your congregation will clap, sway, and celebrate together. It breaks down walls and unites people in pure joy. This song reminds us that worship can be both reverent and wildly celebratory.
RELATED: 15 Of The Best Christmas Sunday School Lessons
6. Joy to the World – Elevation Worship or Mariah Carey
This classic declaration of Christ’s reign never gets old. Every line points to His kingship and our appropriate response.
Elevation Worship offers a contemporary worship arrangement that’s incredibly singable. Mariah Carey’s version brings joy and excellence that’s hard to match. Either choice works beautifully as one of the best christmas songs for church.
The upbeat tempo gets people engaged and celebrating from the first note.
7. Silent Night – Pentatonix or Carrie Underwood
Sometimes the most powerful moment in your service will be this gentle, sacred song. The simplicity allows space for the Holy Spirit to move.
Pentatonix creates stunning harmonies that feel like heaven touching earth. Carrie Underwood’s version is pure and worshipful. This works perfectly for communion, candlelight moments, or closing your christmas songs for church worship time.
It’s tender, it’s beautiful, and it honors Jesus perfectly.
8. Noel – Lauren Daigle or Tori Kelly
This traditional carol tells the Christmas story with beautiful simplicity. Shepherds, angels, and the star all point to one glorious truth.
Lauren Daigle brings her signature warmth and vocal excellence to this classic. Tori Kelly’s arrangement showcases both power and intimacy. This is one of those contemporary christmas songs for church that bridges generational preferences. Everyone can connect with the familiar melody and profound message.
9. What Child Is This? – Chris Rice or Third Day
Built on the Greensleeves melody, this song asks the most important question. The answer transforms everything: This is Christ the King.
Chris Rice offers a folk-inspired version that’s intimate and reflective. Third Day brings their rock worship style that energizes congregations. It’s perfect for moments of contemplation during your christmas songs for church service.
The question format invites personal response and worship.
10. Away in a Manger – Casting Crowns or Amy Grant
This gentle lullaby reminds us of the humble beginning of our King. Jesus entered the world as a vulnerable baby in the simplest setting.
Casting Crowns creates a worshipful atmosphere that’s perfect for family moments. Amy Grant’s version has a sweetness that’s incredibly touching. This works beautifully as one of the christmas songs for church kids love.
The simple melody and words make it accessible for all ages.
RELATED: How To Have A Fantastic Christmas Party In Church
11. Angels We Have Heard on High – David Crowder Band or Hillsong
That “Gloria” chorus is absolutely made for congregational singing. The joy is irresistible and the theology is sound.
David Crowder Band brings their unique energy to this traditional favorite. Hillsong’s arrangement works perfectly for contemporary worship settings.
This is definitely one of those upbeat christmas songs for church that gets everyone participating. The repeated “Gloria” becomes a celebration that builds and builds.
12. Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee – Gospel Choir Version from Sister Act 2
While originally not a Christmas-specific hymn, it’s become a holiday favorite. The explosive joy honors Christ’s birth beautifully and authentically.
The Sister Act 2 version is on every black gospel christmas songs list for good reason. It’s energetic, it’s worshipful, and it’s incredibly fun. Your christmas songs for church choir will love performing this arrangement.
It brings such life and celebration to any service.
13. Come Thou Long Expected Jesus – Kristian Stanfill or Celtic Worship
This song captures both the longing and the fulfillment of Christ’s coming. It connects Advent anticipation with Christmas celebration perfectly.
Kristian Stanfill’s version is powerful and congregationally friendly. Celtic Worship brings theological depth and beautiful harmonies. This modern christian christmas song works throughout the entire season.
The lyrics are rich enough for repeated listening and deep reflection.
14. Emmanuel (Hallowed Manger Ground) – Chris Tomlin
This contemporary worship song makes the manger personal and present. “God with us” becomes more than theology. It becomes real.
Chris Tomlin has such a gift for creating singable, meaningful worship songs. This one builds beautifully from gentle verses to powerful choruses.
It’s perfect as a modern christmas song for church worship experiences. The bridge especially creates space for genuine encounter with Jesus.
15. Little Drummer Boy – for KING & COUNTRY or Pentatonix
This beloved song reminds us that we bring our gifts to Jesus. Even when we feel we have nothing worthy, our worship matters.
for KING & COUNTRY’s version is cinematic and deeply moving. Pentatonix creates an arrangement that’s both innovative and reverent. This works wonderfully during offering or ministry moments.
It’s one of those popular christmas songs for church that people genuinely anticipate.
RELATED: How To Lead Others With Humility And Grace
16. Light of the World – Lauren Daigle
This contemporary song declares Jesus as the hope we’ve been waiting for. The lyrics are scripturally sound and deeply worshipful.
Lauren Daigle’s vocal delivery is both powerful and intimate. The song builds from quiet reflection to full declaration. It’s an excellent choice for contemporary christmas songs for church services.
The modern sound engages younger members while the message touches all ages.
17. This Is Amazing Grace – Phil Wickham (Christmas Version)
While originally not a Christmas song, the Christmas arrangement is stunning. It reminds us why Jesus came, i.e. to bring amazing grace.
Phil Wickham’s passion for worship shines through every note. The song connects Christmas directly to the cross and resurrection. This is perfect for churches wanting upbeat christmas songs for church.
It’s familiar enough that people can sing along while feeling fresh and relevant.
18. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear – Sandi Patty or Josh Groban
This peaceful carol speaks of angels and the promise of peace. In our chaotic world, this message resonates powerfully.
Sandi Patty’s version showcases her incredible vocal gift beautifully. Josh Groban brings a classical elegance that’s breathtaking. This works perfectly for quieter moments in your service.
It’s one of the best christmas songs for church when you need contemplative space.
19. Do You Hear What I Hear? – for KING & COUNTRY
This beloved Christmas classic gets a powerful contemporary makeover from for KING & COUNTRY. Their signature cinematic style brings fresh wonder to this timeless story.
The live performance is dynamic and emotionally charged throughout. The sweeping orchestration captures the urgency of the Christmas message beautifully. This is perfect for popular christmas songs for church that engage all generations.
The familiar melody combined with modern production creates an unforgettable worship moment.
20. Born Is the King (It’s Christmas) – Hillsong Worship
This modern anthem closes our list with pure celebration and declaration. Jesus is King, He is born, and that changes absolutely everything.
Hillsong Worship knows how to create powerful congregational moments. This song builds energy and engagement throughout.
It’s an excellent closing song for your christmas songs for church service. The repetition makes it easy to learn and the message is unforgettable.
RELATED: How To Know What God Is Calling You To Do At Church
Final Thoughts
There you have it, friend. Twenty songs that will serve you well this Christmas and for years to come.
I pray this list lifts some weight off your shoulders this season. Planning worship is a sacred calling, but it doesn’t have to drain you. May these christmas songs for church help you create a birthday party worthy of our King.
As you listen through these options, ask the Lord which songs will best serve your congregation. Trust your instincts. You know your church family better than anyone.
And remember, sister. The perfect setlist matters far less than your heart of worship. Jesus sees your effort, your love, and your desire to honor Him. That’s what makes Christmas Sunday truly beautiful.
What are your favorite christmas songs for church? I’d love to hear what makes your list!
All my love,
Thinking of revisiting this later? Pin the image below to keep it handy and easy to locate!
I appreciate you being here! Happy reading!
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.