“Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” is one of our favorite hymns. We mention it in our book, “Hymns for Kids,” when we discuss the work of translators. Here is a version sung at the 60th anniversary of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
Singing Psalms
One of the most important types of worship songs, that does not get much attention, is the Psalm. The second edition of our book “Hymns for Kids” has an expanded section on the Psalms including, types of Psalms, poetic styles, using a Psalter, versification, etc. Here is an example of a versification of Psalm 103 sung to the hymn tune “Ostend.”
I Know Whom I Have Believed
In the second edition of our book, “Hymns for Kids,” (to be released in August), we teach about different kinds of worship music, including praise songs. One of the blessing of the modern praise song movement is that they have put many Scripture verses to music.
Of course, the Psalms have been versified and set to music for hundreds of years (we also have an expanded section on Psalms and Psalters in our book). Hymn writers have also taken portions of Scripture and set them to music. One favorite is 2 Timothy 1:12.
Sevenfold Amen
In our church, at the end of the sermon, the pastor invites the church to say “Amen.” This morning, after everyone had said Amen, a child echoed the congregation and added their small voice in saying “Amen.” Sure, it was cute, but it also reminded me that Amens are important. We discuss Amens and how they are used in hymns in the upcoming release of the second edition of our book “Hymns For Kids.” It will be available in a few weeks. Not only do many hymns end with the word “Amen,” but there are a number of “Amen” hymns. Here is a sample of the Sevenfold Amen.
For All the Saints
Jesus Loves Me
Guide Me, Thou Great Jehovah
Guide Me, O thou Great Jehovah is one of our favorite hymns. It is available as a download on our site. This is a clip from the British TV show “Last choir Standing” with the group Only Men Aloud! singing the the hymn, which is here credited as to the tune name CWM RHONDDA. The Welsh to this day sing Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah at outdoor sporting events, especially rugby matches.
Risen Today!
O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus
Passing on the Hymns
You may have noticed that hymns are not very popular in many of our churches. To preserve these musical statements of faith, we need to pass them on. That is what I am trying to do with PraiseNotes.com, as well as in my own local church.
That is why I started a new practice in my children’s choir this year. I am asking our pastors and elders to share their favorite hymn. Last Sunday, one of our pastors shared his favorite hymn, “Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands,” an Easter hymn written by Martin Luther.