Please forgive the terrible pun that calls this edition of WorshipSongsOnline to purpose! As you have probably guessed, our new blogs are all centered around our legacy of hymnody. These musical and theological treasures have for centuries lifted our worship and praise. They are a treasured part of our sacred heritage and act as a sound track to our journey of faith. Their encouragement of corporate singing has built in us a strong sense of community and given confidence to worship gatherings of almost every denomination through the years.

For many, like myself, your first piano lessons included learning to play from the hymnal. I remember standing next to my mother as she held the hymnal for me to sing as her mother did before her. This connection to the past makes these messages in song not only foundational to our understanding of essential theological elements, but also enriches them with a sincere nostalgia with precious sacred moments of the past. Hymns decorate our Memorial services, weddings, graduations, baptisms, and a myriad other important times in our lives. It is only natural that even in this day of praise chorus and artist driven worship experiences that hymns still maintain their impact on the hearts of worshippers around the world.

We hope you enjoy our bloggers reflections on hymns and congregational singing! Remember to look at the close of each BLOG for new publications of anthems based on hymn texts or tunes.

Much grace…

Joe