Guide: Hymnals At Home
During this time of pandemic, many churches are sending hymnals home with their congregants. If your church hasn’t sent hymnals home, we encourage you to purchase or find access to a hymnal for use at home. Below are three resources for helping you to learn how to use a hymnal at home or in small groups.
First is a 1-page introduction to the importance of hymnals by Dr. Paul Westermeyer, FHS. He is Emeritus Professor of Church Music at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, where he taught, served as the Cantor, and directed the Master of Sacred Music degree program with St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota.
A Hymnal In The Home – Westermeyer
Second is a 2-page document by Dr. C. Michael Hawn that includes resources based on the lectionary, ideas for hymn based bible studies, and more. C. Michael Hawn, D.M.A., is University Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Church Music and Director of the Doctor of Pastoral Music Program in Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University.
And finally, a video by Center Director Brian Hehn. This short introductory video is great for people who have never used a hymnal before.
For more resources and information, please check out the rest of our site as well as The Hymn Society in the United States and Canada.