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Most are free-to-use (ie public domain or copyright-free) hymns and song means the words can be copied and sung to at least one tune with no concerns about copyright or performance licensing. Many such hymns are old/traditional - but where possible a variety of styles / genres are included.
Most communities have a familiar repertoire of public domain Christmas music, so at this time choosing free-to-use hymns is simple. The list below doesn't include all well known Christmas carols, just the ones that are a particularly good fit with the lectionary readings for this day.
Suggestions about other hymns that could be included are welcome: leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.
Readings
First: Isaiah 9:2-7- The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light ... wonder councilor, mighty God, eternal father, prince of peace.Psalm: Psalm 95 - Today a saviour has been born to us, he is Christ the Lord
Second: Titus 2:11-14 - God's grace has been revealed and made salvation possible.
Gospel: Luke 2:1-14 - Caesar called a census, so Joseph and Mary travelled to Nazareth. Mary gave birth in a manger because there was no room at the inn. Angels appeared to the shepherd, and told of the sign that they would find.
Themes
Christ is born - the great light - humility - God's power - Jesus our saviourFree-use hymns
A Great and Mighty Wonder - Neale
As Joseph was a-Walking - Dunstan
From Heaven Above to Earth I Come - Winkworth, from Luther
God rest you Merry Gentlemen - 18th century, unknown
Good Christian Friends, Rejoice
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
In the Bleak Mid-Winter - Rossetti
Jesus, Good above all Other - Dearmer
Joy to the World - Watts
Let All Together Praise Our God - Crull, from Herman
O Come, All Ye Faithful
O Little Town of Bethlehem
O Worship the Lord in the Beauty of Holiness - Monsell
Sussex Carol (On Christmas night all Christians sing)
The First Nowell
The Virgin Mary had a Baby Boy
Thou Didst Leave thy Throne and thy Kingly Crown - Elliot
Unto us a Child is Born
When the Crimson Sun had Set - Grantham
While Shepherds Watched their Flocks by Night
Hymns which may still be copyright
From the squalor of a borrowed stable - Townend
Glory to God!' all heav'n with joy is ringing - Bower
Glory Glory to the Newborn King (Jesus, Jesus, what a wonderful child) - Allison
God's Surprise (Who would think that what was needed) - Bell
I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve - Sveeggen from Wexelsen
See him Lying on a bed of Straw - Perry
Shepherds Came their Praises Bringing - Caird
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