Hymns are back! Or have they always been? 69% of churches still use hymnals!
In today's modern worship landscape, the significance of hymns in local churches cannot be overstated. Hymns remain relevant to our “modern” church and offer a rich, theologically grounded, and inclusive worship experience, which is important in contemporary worship settings.
The Present Worship Landscape
Christopher Watson, in his series “Worship in the Average Church” for Worship Leader Magazine, provides a comprehensive look at music in the average church. He reveals that traditional forms of worship music, including hymnals and piano-based music, remain prevalent. According to Lifeway research, a significant 69% of churches still use hymnals, and 47% incorporate traditional organ music. This challenges the assumption that modern worship bands dominate church music scenes.
The persistence of traditional music elements within worship services shows a broad appreciation for hymns. Using hymnals and organs maintains a connection to historical worship practices and provides a familiar and structured form of worship that many find comforting and spiritually enriching.
The Theological and Musical Richness of Hymns
In a recent interview, Michael Farren, a Grammy-nominated and multiple Dove Award-winning songwriter and producer, emphasizes that hymns provide an honest, theologically accurate, and beautifully sung form of worship.
“I do think that the writers of old were pulling a very specific theology thread,” Michael says. “They (hymn writers) were less concerned with lyric and melody and more concerned with making sure the gospel was represented well. And so there's a richness to what you're singing that just resonates way down deep…”
This theological depth is crucial at a time when many seek authentic and substantive expressions of faith. Hymns, with their historical and doctrinal roots, offer worshippers a way to connect with the core tenets of Christianity through music that has been tested and cherished over time. Farren’s insights underscore that hymns are not just nostalgic artifacts but powerful tools for conveying the gospel message.
Modern Relevance and Appeal
Farren also discusses the modern appeal of hymns, particularly among younger generations. He observes that 20-somethings are drawn to the authenticity and rootedness that hymns offer, seeking a connection to ancient truths in their worship experience. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing authenticity and historical continuity, which hymns uniquely provide.
Contemporary music artists are even recording and releasing hymns. Carrie Underwood recorded "How Great Thou Art" and "Softly and Tenderly" for her 2021 gospel album My Savior. Josh Turner’s album I Serve a Savior (2018) includes hymns like "I Saw the Light," "How Great Thou Art," and "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot." Lauren Daigle recently recorded “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus”.
Combining these perspectives, it's clear that hymns hold a significant place in today’s local church. They bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, providing a rich, theologically grounded worship experience that resonates across generations. Even popular artists resonate with these ancient and historic Christian texts. Therefore, as churches navigate the complexities of contemporary worship, hymns can offer a timeless and adaptable resource that nurtures spiritual growth.
As Martin Luther said, "Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." Imagine combining the Word of God and deep theological truth with music—what an impact it would have! Oh, wait, that’s what hymns already do…
Hymns Vs. Modern Worship with Michael Farren and Joshua Swanson from Worship Leader on GodTube.
Song Discovery and Simple Hymns Partner on “Come to the River”
Another example of hymns' sacred and historic nature bringing relevance to today’s church is evident in a recent recording of a timeless hymn.
Frances Jane van Alstyne, more commonly known as Fanny J. Crosby, was an extraordinary American mission worker, poet, lyricist, and composer. Despite being blinded in infancy, she became one of the most prolific hymnists in history, writing over 8,000 hymns and gospel songs with more than 100 million copies printed. Her hymns, known for their theological depth and emotional resonance, have been sung in churches worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy in Christian worship.
In a beautiful continuation of her legacy, the Simple Hymns collaboration with Song Discovery has breathed new life into Crosby's hymn "Come to the River." This song, originally written by Crosby, but adapted by Joni Lamb, Joshua Brown, Rebecca Lamb Weiss, Jesse Reeves, and Michael Farren, invites the weary and hopeless to find rest and redemption in the Savior.
The lyrics speak powerfully to the human condition, urging listeners to come to the river of life and find solace in Christ's sacrifice. The compelling chorus beckons us to:
Come to the river
The river of life
Run to the Savior
To the arms of Christ
This hymn blends traditional theological richness with a fresh, contemporary sound, making it a profound addition to modern worship repertoires.
Here’s an acoustic recording of “Come to the River (River of Life)” with Michael Farren for Song Discovery.
Come to the River (River of Life) - Fanny Crosby Hymn with Michael Farren from Worship Leader on GodTube.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Jantanee Rungpranomkorn
