ATSS: David Neff, “What Language Shall I Borrow? How the church’s hymns speak in our lives”
16 August 2023 |
In that phrase—“what language shall I borrow”—the translator of “O Sacred Head Now Wounded” captures the sense of speechlessness we experience when confronted with divine mystery. When we experience life’s greatest joys or sorrows, when we sense the Divine presence in church, in the natural world, or in our relationships, we can be at a loss for words.
Both music and verse come to our aid in these moments, and the church’s hymns can be a wonderful resource. New religious movements, as Adventists, Methodists, Lutherans, and others once were, find ways to draw on existing material—often biblical material—to create their own “soundtrack.” At their beginnings, new movements find musical and poetic resources to give voice to their unique insights. Singing their songs together helps to bind them together as communities by creating a common experience that goes beyond the merely rational and intellectual.
New social movements do the same. Finally, as established religious movements face major social change—such as increased acceptance of women’s leadership or the broader recognition of LGBTQ rights—they will either seek a new soundtrack that will allow them to expand their embrace or they will seek cohesion by entrenching their former “playlist.” David Neff, retired editor of Christianity Today magazine, will draw on his 60 years as a professional church musician to look at the history, the issues, and the resources related to our hymn singing.
Teacher:
David Neff is a retired editor of Christianity Today, who now works as a minister of music.
Moderator:
Loren Seibold is the Executive Editor of Adventist Today.
How to join:
One-click link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86128812498
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We look forward to getting acquainted with you!
YouTube channel:
You can see all of our previous ATSS recordings here.
Coming up:
- Pilira Zapita (Newbold)
- Kärt Lazic (Newbold)
