The PCOCS gathered in Louisville last week for four days of worship, singing, and deliberation. They have read or sung through most submissions and are in their final decision-making process. While here, they worked as a full committee and also divided into “Text” and “Tune” groups for specific tasks. Throughout the week they discussed variations in lyrics over the centuries, Trinitarian theology, and the best instrumentation for suggested accompaniments. They asked important questions: Did the text represent our Reformed theological tradition? Was a song difficult to sing? Would it be played with organ or piano or guitar? The PCOCS will reconvene in August, pushing toward their January 2012 deadline for completing the list of contents.
The content of the new hymnal will debut at General Assembly in July 2012. Only one year away! As the date approaches, our opportunities for service increase. Here are some things that you can do with us:
- Continue to pray for this work – that it will be to God’s glory and not our own. The PCOCS have three remaining meetings and much to be done!
- We are beginning a new initiative (name TBA) to call attention to congregational song. Every Presbyterian will be invited to sing the same hymn in worship on the same days throughout the next two years. The first sing-along will be on Sunday, September 4, singing “Blest Be the Tie That Binds”. Take videos and pictures of your congregation singing that day, then email files to us to post on our website! Mark your calendars for the next sing-along: October 30 (Reformation Sunday) when we will sing “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”.
- Make announcements or take displays to your local Presbytery, AGO, and other meetings. We will mail resources for you to share: Hymnal Samplers, bulletin inserts, and other marketing material. If you haven't already signed up to be a Hymnal Advocate, it is not too late! Please visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/9VQWNBH . This will guarantee that you receive the latest news and resources (hint, hint: FREE stuff!).
- If there is a specific event that we should put on our agenda (to host a workshop, attend a conversation, help plan worship, etc.), please let us know.
- Visit our website regularly for the latest breaking news www.presbyterianhymnal.org.
- On Facebook, find us under “Presbyterian Committee on Congregational Song (PCOCS)”. www.facebook.com/PCOCS
Please keep us informed of your work and how we can help you in your ministries. Thank you for your ongoing service within the church!
