Selecting a Hymnal

Selecting a hymnal can seem like an overwhelming task. However, the hymnal committee may wish to consider first what features are important to your congregation.

Words of Hymns/Songs:

1. Bible-centered hymns with words from or based on the Scriptures.

2. God-centered hymns/song which reflect theology consistent with Cumberland Presbyterian beliefs.

3. Words adapted for inclusivity.

4. Modern hymn texts with allusions to contemporary life and situations, either with new music or set to familiar hymn tunes.

Styles of Music:

5. Singable range of music which is pitched neither too high nor too low.

6. Variety of musical moods from the solemn and reflective to joyous and exuberant.

Types of Hymns/Songs:

7. All traditional hymns. (e.g., "The Church's One Foundation," "Holy, Holy, Holy")

8. All traditional gospel songs. (e.g., "The Old Rugged Cross," "When the Roll is Called Up Yonder")

9. All contemporary songs. (e.g., "God is an Awesome God," "Lord of the Dance," "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High")

10. A good balance of traditional, gospel, and contemporary songs.

11. Hymns/songs that are especially meaningful and usable with children and youth, but are user friendly for all ages.

12. Service Music (calls to worship, responses, prayers, benedictions)

13. Hymns appropriate for special occasions (Advent/Christmas/The Lord's Supper/

Baptism/Lent/Easter/Prayer/Marriage & Family/Stewardship, etc.)

14. Hymns with a variety of ethnic backgrounds.

15. Non-English texts such as Spanish, Korean, Japanese.

Design/Type of Book:

16. Clear notation so that music and words are very readable.

17. Alternate versions such as large print or organist.

18. Organization of hymnal - Christian Year? Themes?

19. Variety of binding colors to enhance the church colors.

Non-music Resources:

20. A section of scripture passages suitable for unison or responsive reading. What version of the scripture would you prefer? Would you prefer a variety of versions?

21. A section of "worship aids" such as creeds, readings, prayers, etc.

22. Well indexed for hymn tunes, scripture references/allusions, topical, metrical, composers/arrangers/sources

23. Hymnal companion that gives background of hymns/songs.

24. Scripture readings and worship aids scattered throughout the hymnal.