A hymnal is a church’s songbook for congregational worship, usually containing the words and music of hymns arranged for regular services, special occasions, and the church year. Members may find one in a pew, on a stand near the chancel, or use an electronic edition during a service.
What is a hymnal?
A hymnal gathers hymns—religious songs used in worship—into one book, usually for congregational singing. Most editions print each tune with its text; some provide separate music and words sections. Books may also include psalms, metrical verse, spirituals, gospel songs, and sections for particular seasons.
The word comes from the Greek hymnos, meaning “a song of praise.” A single song is a hymn; “hymnal” usually names the collection rather than one song. Printing helped congregations share familiar words and melodies across generations.
A service bulletin that prints only the day’s songs is not necessarily a hymnal.
How is a hymnal used during a service?
Leaders usually identify a hymn by its number, title, or first line, sometimes using an order of service. Congregants follow the book, while a choir or soloists may use the same collection. Some songs are sung sitting and others standing, depending on the congregation’s practice and the service.
- Seasonal material for Advent, Lent, Easter, and other observances
- Hymns grouped by theme, such as creation, prayer, or service
- Indexes by title, first line, tune, meter, or biblical text
Which churches use hymnals?
Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran, Presbyterian and Reformed, Episcopal and Anglican, and Latter-day Saint congregations commonly use hymnals or similar approved collections. Catholic congregations may use a Catholic hymnal alongside the missal. Many Orthodox churches rely more heavily on service books and chant books than on one general congregational hymnal.
Jewish congregations use a siddur or, for some services, a mahzor; they may also use printed collections of songs. Some Christian congregations now use projected words or digital files for all or part of their music.
How is a hymnal different from other worship books?
A hymnal is mainly a songbook. A psalter is designed for singing or chanting the Psalms, often with musical tones. A missal contains the prayers and order of the Roman Catholic Mass; scripture readings are usually in a separate lectionary, while music may come from a separate hymnal.
An order of service gives the sequence of the service, including which hymns will be sung. Some official worship books combine music and service material.
What should a first-time visitor expect?
A hymnal may be in a pew rack, left at the back, or supplied as a booklet. Follow the congregation and use the page or number announced; you do not need to memorize a song beforehand. Passing a hymnal down a pew is common in many congregations.
Churches with screens may display lyrics instead, while still keeping a hymnal available for the music. Ask an usher or worship leader if you are unsure where to find one.