Item of Interest January 25, 1930 Issue

Item of Interest

The Christian Science Hymnal is in process of revision and enlargement. This Hymnal, much beloved by Christian Scientists, has been in use for more than thirty years. It has been thrice revised, in 1898, 1903, and 1909.

The Christian Science Hymnal revision committee, working in Boston under the direction of The Christian Science Board of Directors, has been greatly aided in its work by a committee formed in London, England, at the instance of the Directors, to receive and consider recommendations from churches and individuals in the British Isles touching the Hymnal, together with contributions of outstanding examples of hymnology. An invitation has been sent also by the Board of Directors of The Mother Church by letter to churches and societies in certain other lands, to transmit to Boston similar recommendations of suitable hymns known in their respective countries.

This notice will serve to inform the Christian Science Field, especially good composers and poets in our movement, that they may now send material of merit to The Christian Science Board of Directors at 206 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts. Original compositions by experienced writers, compositions of entirely new hymns,—words and music,—are desired, rather than recommendations for changes in the present Hymnal, a subject which has already received much attention. The work offered should be "of an appropriate religious character and of a recognized standard of musical excellence" (Manual, Article XIX, Sect. 1). The poetry should be of a like standard of excellence. New tunes suitable as hymn settings to Mrs. Eddy's words, as distinguished from music written for solo use, may be sent. Any contributions which are not found acceptable for use will be returned to the senders. All contributions should be in the hands of the Directors not later than June 1, 1930. It is expected that the revision committee's work, the further preparation for printing the new Hymnal, including the making of plates, and the printing of it, will be completed and the Hymnal, it is hoped, ready for distribution early in 1932.

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