We continue to encourage organists to choose organ music first from compositions that are hymn-based. Start with hymns that have to do with the gospel theme of the day. Generally, hymns that have melodies familiar to our people and that have texts that match the content of Scripture ought to be chosen. The hymn certainly has a familiar tune, but its text does not speak a clear message from Scripture. I might use an organ composition based on that tune in church.
Free compositions ought to be selected with the mood of the service in mind.
Handel marches and Bach fugues are fitting for Easter recessionals, but the pre-service music during Lent ought to be a little more somber. For more information on the subject read the pertinent chapter in Christian Worship Manual , a publication of the Commission on Worship and Northwestern Publishing House . My daughter will be getting married in August. At this time our church does not have a pastor and we will find out soon who our temporary pastor will be. The pastor who will be doing the service is retired.