The Joy of Christmas Music

by Fr. John Granato  |  12/14/2025  |  Words from Fr. John

My Dear Friends,

On this third Sunday of Advent, I bring you some of my favorite Christmas songs and artists. No one sings "The Christmas Song" better than Nat King Cole. And no one sings "White Christmas" better than Bing Crosby. These two should be obvious to all. I also like Bing Crosby's versions of "O Come All Ye Faithful" and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman." In fact the Christmas albums (I'm dating myself with the word album) of Nat King Cole and Bing Crosby are nearly perfect. Frank Sinatra sings a beautiful "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," but in the movie, The Godfather, it is Al Martino who sings the song as Michael and Kay are shopping in New York City.

Al Martino, of course, is the singer who plays Johnny Fontaine in the Godfather movies. Andy Williams has the original version of "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." Perry Como's "Home for the Holidays" also brings back lovely memories. For instrumental Christmas music, there are always Henry Mancini and Kenny G. Vince Guaraldi has a nice mix of instrumental and lyrical pieces in his Charlie Brown Christmas album. "Silent Night," "O Holy Night," and "The First Noel" are three favorites that have been done well by numerous artists. Mercy Me has a beautiful song called "Joseph's Lullaby," and Amy

Grant has a beautiful song called "Breath of Heaven." I would have to say, though, that besides "O Holy Night," my other most favorite Christmas song is "What Child is This." Every Advent, radio stations play Christmas songs non-stop, then the day after Christmas they go back to their regular music. Yet, the Christmas season begins on December 25th and goes to at least January 6th (the traditional date of the solemnity of Epiphany). The joy of Christmas music should be enjoyed throughout the whole Christmas season.

God bless