Enhancing the spirit of gratitude, this glorious original is a clarion call to worship and laud. Lushly melodic and lavishly rich in harmonization, the anthem sweeps the listener along. The text is an invitation to lift an obliged heart to the Giver of all good gifts and to share the abundance with others in need. The enduring love of God is a worthy subject at any time of the year. Satisfying!

Uses: General, Thanksgiving, Concert Scripture: Isaiah 6:3 Incorporating a classic hymn text and a beloved hymn tune, this celtic-style song leaps from the page like a sacred dance of praise. The general text makes it useful anytime but it could also be used for Thanksgiving Sunday or even Christ the King Sunday. The flute and percussion add a certain folk quality while still maintaining its sanctuary sensitivity.

Uses: General, Lent, Youth Scripture: Hebrews 2:4; John 4:48; Acts 19:11; Psalm 135:9; Mark 16:20 The tastefully theatrical chorals of Joel Raney always invigorate worship moments and stretch our stylistic envelopes which allows churches to expand their worship vocabularies. Celebrating the miraculous wonders of Christ's ministry, this anthem seems right at home in a musical vernacular that sounds jazzy and traditional all at once. Attention to details of articulation, dynamics and interpretation will pay dividends musically and spiritually as you energize your group towards a deeper appreciation of the ministry of Jesus.

Here is a new worship and praise song that is easy to learn but hard to forget. Brimming with an island feel, this calypso-styled multigenerational octavo is the feel-good piece of the year. The piano accompaniment follows traditional patterns and creates a rhythmic base that dances its way off the page. The interplay between children and adult choirs is carefully arranged and the inclusion of OLD HUNDREDTH adds a familiar touch. Pure joy!

Composer: Karen Crane

Layers of beauty characterize this lofty anthem of encouragement. A noble theme both musically and lyrically, the anthem affirms that God's promises are reliable and His grace provides for us in every situation. Distinctive sections bring the text to life with splashes of choral color and make full use of a deep rich accompaniment. Add the handbells for a festive flair! Score and Parts (org, hndbl, 3 oct.) available as a digital download.

A popular early American hymn tune receives a new text celebrating the beauty of creation and a spirit of thanksgiving. An engaging piano groove provides a rustic underpinning to the theme, sounded first in unison and then with two-part choir. The original refrain opens up to an engaging four-part moment that showcases the choir and provides a wonderful shine to this text of praise and worship. Memorable!

Country: Appalachia

Sweet and gentle from beginning to end, this charming lullaby captures the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. A captivating lilting Celtic melody and a text that is replete with vivid word painting combine to provide an excellent addition to your Christmas Eve service.

Uses: General, Lent Scripture: Matthew 4:18-21; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 9:1-6 Springing from the inspiration of Scripture, this anthem articulates an important moment in the life of Christ and His chosen disciples. Filled with musical text-painting, a memorable main theme delivers an expressive call to service. A winsome piano part supports the voices and offers a beautiful fabric of sound for the words of the Savior. A true sermon in song!

Here is an anthem with fresh perspective and innovative musical elements. Unfolding slowly, this impressionistic tone poem marries text and music with great care and elegance. The lyric comparison of creation to a sanctuary is unique but, when joined with the composer's palette of compositional colors, the result is an anthem of great scope and beauty. Praiseworthy!

This little charmer tells an enchanting story using a combination of English and Spanish lyrics. Lightly syncopated vocal and piano parts create a mariachi feel, and optional percussion ostinati add to the Latin American style.

Country: Latin America

Gideon is a great addition to the Houston Children's Chorus Series. With a text from the late J. Paul Williams, the celebrated composer, Joel Raney, has provided a delightful piece that entertains and teaches the classic Bible story.

This tremendously engaging anthem is filled to the brim with innovative vocal and keyboard writing. Scored for SATB and 4-Hand Piano Accompaniment, the impact of this unique approach is instantaneous. Based on an early American hymn source, the arrangement has an almost Copland-esque quality, bringing a bit of cinematic tone painting into the sanctuary. The text is a joyful hope-filled reminder of our divine destination. Don't miss this one! An alternate standard piano accompaniment is available as a free download.

Composer: Mary Ellen Kerrick

A sweeping theme forms the basis of this inspirational paean of praise. The text is a series of descriptions declaring the divine attributes of God. As majestic as its noble thematic gesture, the music grows gradually until a magnificent final exclamation displays with confidence the phrase God of glory. An orchestral-like piano part builds a solid sonority as triplets drive the anthem forward with vigor and unrelenting confidence.

A portrait of humble and faithful service is presented in this pleasing ballad. Melodically satisfying, the sweeping chorus climbs to impressive heights, carrying with it the core values to be faithful and true, patient and understanding, seeking wisdom, knowledge and truth. As if mirroring the message of a contrite heart, the anthem ends quiescently, enabling seamless worship flow. Accompany with piano, or add a handbell choir, for a truly unique offering. A teachable moment for the soul! Part for Handbells (3-5 oct.) available as a digital download.

Uses: All Saints, Concert, General, Spiritual Scripture: Daniel 7:9-10, I Peter 2:2-3 Engaging from the very first measure, this brilliantly arranged romp for concert usage or All Saints Sunday is a crowd pleaser and a musician's delight! Idiomatic piano writing forms a crafty foundation for this joyful pairing of two traditional spirituals. Joined thematically by images of heaven and our dreams for glory and eternal life, this selection is good any time we celebrate our hope in Christ.

A festival anthem, here is a confident declaration of worship. Driving with purpose and passion, a rhythmic theme rises to heaven like a prayer inviting all creation to join the alleluia! Add in the brilliant handbell option to complete the package!

Uses: Advent, Christmas Scripture: Psalm 5:3; I Corinthians 2:9; Luke 1:28-80 This is a stunning new Christmas declaration that is destined for the bestseller list. Full of theatrical gestures this engaging piece is instantly endearing and the message is a joyful addition to Christmas or post-Christmas programming. This anthem is really unique and a pleasant change from sleepy manger cradle songs.Available: SATB, clarinet, perc.; LiteTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:50.

Uses: Ascension, General Scripture: Luke 24:50-53; Acts 6:1-11 A new take on an early American hymn classic, this anthem dances with joy and lilting grace, making it ideal for Ascension Sunday or general use. Approachable ranges and sensitive part-writing invite groups of any size and level to consider this praiseworthy selection. Fresh!

Uses: General, Thanksgiving Scripture: I Thessalonians 5:18 This sensational song of gratitude is a sincere call to being thankful for the blessings of life. The beautifully arching melody gives singers an expressive moment to enjoy and pianists will revel in the ways the piano interacts with the voices. Written to be useful anytime, program as an offertory to add meaning and power to this important moment in worship.

From tender thoughts of God's love to ecstatic acclamations of thanksgiving and praise, this anthem portrays a journey of faith. An expertly crafted piano accompaniment coaxes the arrangement forward while full, traditional styled harmonies provide a deep, rich sonority. This pilgrimage of praise ends with a triumphant crescendo that is a true jubilee of grace.

Composer: C. Austin Miles

Uses: General, Pentecost, Unity, Stewardship Scripture: I Corinthians 12:1-11 A fresh perspective on a treasured Scripture is the heart of this melodic choral anthem. A simple, yet elegant tune delivers clearly the message of unity and sharing. A supportive and decorative piano part moves the piece forward and the well-crafted choral writing arranges for the success of your ensemble. Celebrate the diversity of our gifts and discover the union we have in the love of Christ! Duration: ca. 3:13.

Composer: Diane Hannibal

An exquisite testimony of faith, this magnificent anthem engages the listener's heart with emotive melodies and sensitive harmonies. Each measure overflows with layers of beauty, creating a worshipful spirit, honoring the signs and wonders of Jesus' ministry among us.

The original lyrics inspired by the artistry of Claude Monet is set to music based on Satie's Gymnopedie No. 1 by Joel Raney. The serene SSA arrangement is quite stunning and a perfect choice for concert, festival or contest, filled with lush harmonies that paint the text superbly.

A celebration of abundant life and the goodness of God, this anthem is a driving gospel juggernaut! Ideal for praise band or choir, your people will be energized by the engaging syncopations and dazzling harmonies.

Composer: Karen Crane

Uses: General, Novelty Scripture: Jeremiah 36:4,8,10,32 This singular text about the prophets of God is a joyful walk through the men and women who spoke the Word of God to the people of God. The music is a splendid mix of theatre, gospel and jazz, all creating a jubilant tapestry of voices and piano. Musical repetition quickens the learning process. A perfect encore or special music, this can be the anthem for that hard to program Sunday. A modern day spiritual that is truly unique!

Uses: General, Christmas Eve, Christmas Scripture: I Thessalonians 5:17; Matthew 1:18-25; Isaiah 7:14 Re-tooling a classic hymn into a Christmas offering is a crafty concept, and in this refined arrangement the idea becomes art. Easily learned, the piece is something old and something new making this choral a satisfying addition to any concert or worship service. The instrumentation adds additional layers of sonic complexity while the optional text, presenting the original Sweet Hour of Prayer text, gives thoughtful directors programming flexibility. Available separately: SATB, LiteTrax CD, Orchestration (Score & parts for flute, cello, 2 oct. handbells). NOTE: Away in a Manger quote in handbells has TACET option if performing the Sweet Hour of Prayer text. Duration: ca. 4:00.

Overflowing with joy, this song based on Jesus' miraculous healing of a blind man is one of the most original octavos of recent publications! Infused with a quasi-Latin musical sensibility, the melody is instantly attractive, delivering the refrain with rhythmic vitality and engaging harmonies. As the story is told, the contrasting lyrical section allows the piece to breathe, as the choir becomes the troubadour, sharing the graceful touch of Jesus and His love. Don't miss this one!

Raise the roof with this jazzy number! Pure joy carries the message of forgiveness and grace. The piano dances with the choir, and the results are an anthem that will be a the feel-good moment in any service.

Floating effortlessly on the wings of worship, this classic contemporary song easily makes the transition to choral. The pleasing adaptation fits into the sweet spot for choir adding warmth and hushed intensity to any worship gathering. A brief quote from the refrain of Heavenly Sunlight grows organically from the body of the song, creating a bridge that lifts the piece to new heights for a truly inspiring conclusion.

Composer: Michael W. Smith Performed By: Phillips, Craig & Dean

Uses: Pentecost Scripture: Acts 2 This anthem is something uncommon for the important Sunday of Pentecost. Infused with a world music beat, the anthem is easy to learn and delivers a sense of joy and celebration to the service. Alternating syncopated gestures with flowing lines create a pleasing and accessible anthem that is an invitation to God's Spirit to descend and ignite our faith. Flute and percussion parts included. Available separately: SATB, LiteTrax CD. Duration: ca. 2:51.

Now available in an SAB voicing, this choral classic has been given a fresh new setting with a four-hand piano accompaniment (optional two-hand accompaniment is also available). The always-creative Joel Raney beautifully and faithfully captures the spirit of the piece while offering some interesting twists.

Composer: Harry Simeone

Uses: Communion, Christian fellowship Scripture: I Corinthians 11:23-28, Matthew 26:26-20, Luke 22:17-20, Hebrews 9:13-22 Joel Raney is known for the variety of his compositional style and in this inaugural Shawnee publication he captures a perfect vibe for setting this lesser known spiritual. Joining it with Let Us Break Bread Together is an inspired touch and this new piece is an innovative new addition to communion repertoire. The optional violin and cello parts really set it apart. Also available: LiteTrax Accompaniment CD.

The famous passage from Ecclesiastes has been often set and rightly so, and this latest addition to the oeuvre is an auspicious, beautifully crafted anthem of scope. Adding character and musical variety to each scriptural statement, the overall spirit is hopeful and positive, and the organ accompaniment adds greatly to this colorful approach. All vocal parts will find challenge and fulfillment in the interesting textures, and a lofty, forte ending is the perfect crown for this majestic offering.

This testament to unity is a needful addition to the choral canon. Thoughtfully crafted, this sacred song has a world music vibe that will energize and inspire! The use of multiple languages in the text, along with creative communion serving ideas, makes this a versatile selection.

Uses: Communion, Unity Scripture: Matthew 26:26-29; Philippians 2:1-4 From the writing team of Joel Raney and Joseph Martin comes this creative offering for Communion. A soulful melody combines with an appealing piano accompaniment to create this gospel-styled gem. Skillful part-writing makes this piece a one rehearsal wonder, and the inclusion of Blest Be the Tie That Binds is a masterful touch. As we gather in this place, we are joined in His embrace. When we gather at the table, we are one.

This distinctive anthem swirls with sound, rising and falling with vibrant colors and a creative melody. Rustic power drives the theme set in a minor mode, bringing a thrilling spirit to each phrase. Lyric moments offer contrast and poetic commentary before the impressionistic piano carries the singer back to the energy of the opening. Pentecostal purpose meets dazzling music and the results are on point!

Uses: General, Senior Adult Choirs, Memorials Scripture: Psalm 29:11; Hebrews 6:19 Two much-loved hymns from yesteryear shine again in this sentimental tribute to the hope and peace we have in Jesus. For years these two songs of the faith have been favorites for funerals and memorial services, and this arrangement adorns these expressive old hymns with warm harmonies and a flowing piano part. Duration: ca. 4:28.