Not Singing From the Same Hymnbook: New Adventist Hymnal in South America
- Changes to Adventist Hymnal include the removal of 230 hymns.
- Words that over time have fallen into disuse or have acquired other meanings were replaced.
- Musical pitch of hymns adjusted so more people can sing comfortably in their vocal range.
01 July 2022 | Keep a song in your heart—but maybe not in the hymnbook.
A committee made up of leaders from the South American Division, the Brazilian Publishing House (CPB), and other collaborators representing Adventists from around Brazil has made major changes to the current version of the Adventist Hymnal, which was released in 1996. After nearly four years of work, the New Adventist Hymnal will be released July 8, 2022, in Portuguese.
Some of the changes include the removal of 230 hymns which were replaced by 220 other songs. There will be 10 fewer hymns, for a total of 600 songs.
Representatives said the changes make the material more relevant and present in the daily life of the church. Each hymn underwent careful reading, which led to the alteration of some lyrics to ensure they were in line with biblical theology and highlighted the correct emphases, reported Adventist News Network.
Other changes included making the language simpler and more accessible to reach a larger group of members, mainly children and young people; the correction of grammatical errors; making the hymns look physically more aesthetically pleasing; and replacing words that over time have fallen into disuse or have acquired other meanings. For example, the phrase “Come, boys” was replaced with “Come, children.”
The musical scores of the hymns were also analyzed. Adjustments were made to the music so more people could sing comfortably in their vocal range. In addition, melody corrections were made to facilitate and enrich the harmony.
The hymnaries will come with various options for covers, as well as versions with and without music.
“The Adventist Hymnal has always been an inspiration in our services. And we want, with this new edition, to reinforce our core beliefs in the hearts of our members, strengthen our identity, and boost our greatest hope. We hope these praises will be a constant part of worship in our churches, be part of small groups, be part of family worship, and inspire generations to continue to focus on mission and prepare for that big day,” said Stanley Arco, president of the South American Division.
(Photo: The New Adventist Hymnal will come with various options for covers, as well as versions with and without music. Photo via the South American Division.)
