Evening Republican, Volume 18, Number 163, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 13 July 1914 — Harmony and Hymnais. [ARTICLE]

Harmony and Hymnais.

In making a new hymnal for all the Lutheran bodies, the general council of that denomination has taken a step in the direction of federation. From sixteen different hymnali a new collection has been culled, which best represents the Lutheran theology. The hymn book has always been a meeting place of sects. Protestants have no objection to singing Cardinal Newman’s "Lead, Kindly Light,” and evangelical Christians unite in singing "Nearer, My God, to Thee,” written by a Unitarian. Music eliminates doctrinal differences. Theological statements emphasize them. Perhaps the chief value of the hymnal is its contribution to church unity. Incidentally it may be said that the melody of church hymns might be greatly improved, as well as the literary value. Many good hymns have been spoiled by poor melody, and others are destroyed by poor singers. The model hymnal has not yet appeared.— Philadelphia Ledger.