I play 5 string, Scruggs style mostly. I’m not great, but I have fun. I am looking for suggestions for a song to play with our bluegrass group in church for the installation of our new pastor. She would like the theme of the installation service to be something along the lines of everyone is welcome in our church (it’s a nondenominational Christian church in a small town). I find so many bluegrass hymns that talk about the promised land and sinners being forgiven, being saved when you die, etc. I’m looking for something with lyrics closer to her theme and a little more upbeat. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
And, of course, if you have music or chords to go along with your suggestion, even better. Thanks so much.
Maybe you’d like one of these....
Edited by - chuckv97 on 08/04/2026 15:19:39
Hi Michele,
Great question. There are lots of old country/blues/gospel songs that work well in a Bluegrass arrangement that can be used for an installation without too much difficulty. Here are just a few quick ideas - maybe something will work.
I'm Gonna Sit At The Welcome Table
I Find Jesus (Jimmy Ibbotson)
I Know Who Holds Tomorrow (Alison Krauss)
Singing As We Rise (Joe Newberry, Gibson Brothers) - you can adjust the lyrics easily
Ring The Bell (Gibson Brothers)
If you want something a little more creative and unique you could do 'Crowded Table' by The Highwomen. It's a killer song that is easy and you can put the chorus' words in a bulletin or on a screen so everyone can sing. Even though they won't know the song it's easy enough to pick up. Change the word 'home' to 'church' and it works even better.
Feel free to message me through the hangout if you need someone to bounce ideas off.
Corey
Carl Jackson's, Little Mountain Churchhouse
You could bluegrass "Softly and Tenderly ".
Rick
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