“Hymns for Congregations,” Hymns of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 380–81
Unison and Part Singing
Although part singing (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) has a strong tradition in the Church, the goal in congregational singing is that all participate, no matter what their vocal ability may be. Because many members sing the melody regardless of their vocal range, the hymns are in keys that accommodate both unison and part singing. Some hymns—and parts of hymns—are specifically written for unison singing.
Selecting the Right Hymn
The hymns you select should reflect the general character of the meeting and help establish the proper spirit.
The opening hymn may be one of supplication or praise; it may express gratitude for the gospel, joy in being able to gather together, or enthusiasm for the work to be done.
The sacrament hymn should refer to the sacrament itself or to the sacrifice of the Savior.
An intermediate hymn provides an opportunity for congregational participation and may relate to the subject of the talks presented in the meeting. The congregation may stand during this hymn as appropriate.
The closing hymn is an opportunity for the congregation to respond to the spirit and content of the meeting.
Not every hymn is suitable for every Church-related occasion. Some hymns may be more appropriate for a youth gathering than for a sacrament meeting.
Selecting Verses to Be Sung
You need not feel compelled to sing all the verses of a hymn unless the message is otherwise incomplete. However, do not routinely shorten a hymn by singing just the first one or two verses. Singing the verses printed below the music is encouraged.
Achieving Balance in the Selection of Hymns
In addition to using hymns already known and loved, members are encouraged to become acquainted with new or less familiar hymns. Try to achieve a good balance between familiar favorites and less well-known hymns.
Hymns for Stake Conference
Standard, well-known hymns are often the best choice for stake conference, particularly if hymnbooks are not available for the entire congregation. Here are a few such hymns: “Come, Come, Ye Saints”; “Come, O Thou King of Kings”; “Come, Ye Children of the Lord”; “Count Your Blessings”; “Do What Is Right”; “Guide Us, O Thou Great Jehovah”; “High on the Mountain Top”; “How Firm a Foundation”; “I Am a Child of God”; “I Know That My Redeemer Lives”; “Let Us All Press On”; “Now Let Us Rejoice”; “Praise to the Man”; “Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel”; “Redeemer of Israel”; “Sweet Is the Work”; “The Spirit of God”; “We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet.”
You may copy the hymns on a printed program unless the copyright restrictions on the hymn state that this is not permitted.
National Anthems
A few patriotic songs have been included in the hymnbook; with priesthood approval, local national anthems may be added. Members may stand for national anthems in church meetings according to local custom and priesthood direction.
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