How Great the Love of Jesus
Gorgeous poetic imagery opens with a statement of Christ's sacrifice of coming to earth, then the song further explores the humbling thought "to wash the very feet that He Himself designed," and Christ's earthly sacrifice on the cross. Poignant and moving during Lent, for Maundy Thursday, or Good Friday. (From "Songs of the Passion.")

Beautifully orchestrated for Flute, Oboe, Handbells, Percussion, and Strings.

The Noel Critter Motel
Welcome to the Tiny Bit of Heaven Motel in Bethlehem! (Actually it's a stable behind a small Inn which is run completely by animals.)

Annie Lamb, reporter for The Bethlehem Chronicle, is snooping around for clues regarding Caesar's Census. However, she - along with the others - is about to have a life-changing night. Major Moo runs a tip-top motel, accompanied by Miss Dovie (Front Desk Clerk), Ladybug Lacey (maid) and Cecil R. Caterpillar (bellhop). The Innkeeper is the only human that ever comes in among the animal visitors, but rumor has it he is bringing a human couple in to stay the night, and the animals are afraid these people will ruin everything!

But they all eventually learn that a certain "Stranger on the straw" came to earth to change the world, and that even people and things we don't understand can sometimes be miracles in disguise.

Performance time approximately 20 minutes, with familiar material woven into the original songs. By Mark Cabaniss and Ruth Elaine Schram, orchestrated by John DeVries.

Watch the Digital Reading Session with Mark Cabaniss and Ruth Elaine Schram here!



more info...

Upon a Midnight Clear
Come to Bethlehem and relive that midnight clear when "the world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing." In this 35-minute Christmas musical, veterans John Purifoy and Ruth Elaine Schram have captured the joy of Christmas in dynamic and tender musical moments. The work begins with the beautiful "Stand Still and Wait" by Cynthia Clawson, and gracefully carries us from Advent to the birth of our Savior.

The narration (by Mark Cabaniss) incorporates brief character monologues that give an account of their role on that first Christmas night long ago, bringing it to life in vivid tones. Optional congregational participation is included, as well as the optional incorporation of children's voices. Add the simple, optional staging and candlelight touches to create an unforgettable Christmas worship experience for your church and community.

Exquisite orchestration by Ed Hogan; Accompaniment CD available as well as part-dominant rehearsal aids.

Watch the Digital Reading Session with Mark Cabaniss, John Purifoy, and Ruth Elaine Schram here!



more info...