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LDS Church celebrates one year since launch of global hymnbook

 
LDS Church celebrates one year since launch of global hymnbook
Russell M. Nelson President | Official Website

One year has passed since the introduction of "Hymns—For Home and Church," a global hymnbook from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Announced in June 2018, this ongoing project aims to unite members worldwide through music.

The First Presidency has outlined that the new hymnbook will contain approximately 375 hymns and children's songs. It is expected to be available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French by mid-2027, with other translations to follow. Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles stated, “This is an ambitious and complex project,” emphasizing the involvement of church leadership in its development.

More than 17,000 hymns were submitted by individual members for consideration. Each hymn was selected based on criteria approved by the First Presidency, focusing on increasing faith, teaching core gospel doctrine, inviting joyful singing, providing comfort, and unifying church members.

Elder Renlund noted that some hymns would be unfamiliar to many members. To address this, certain hymns have been released ahead of the full publication. This gradual release began in May 2024 with 13 new hymns published in multiple languages. A media event was held on May 30, 2024, at the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City to introduce the hymnbook.

Elder Isaac K. Morrison highlighted its significance: “This is a worldwide Church... having the same hymn book... is just a blessing.” In September 2024, more hymns were released including shared Christian songs like “Amazing Grace” and original Latter-day Saint compositions such as “Holding Hands Around the World.”

Fifteen additional hymns were released in February 2025 alongside translations into German, Korean, and Tagalog. Kayla Decker, translation manager for the hymnbook project said it represents a prophecy fulfillment: “The taking of this hymnbook to the world... is a manifestation of that prophecy of God.”

Church members have shared their experiences with these new hymns via social media. Santiago Garcia from Chile described them as enriching his worship experience. Natalia Earley from Idaho appreciated how they offer new ways to testify about Jesus.

Margaret from Arizona mentioned their spiritual impact while Kade Scorseby from Ohio found them comforting during family moments at home. Orthneil Kelley from Indiana noted how they help focus on Christ.

As "Hymns—For Home and Church" continues its rollout globally, it brings joy and inspiration to Latter-day Saints incorporating these songs into worship practices. Katie Wood from Idaho Falls reflected on their timelessness: “God’s gospel truly is timeless... people are still writing songs about our Savior.”

Elder Renlund encouraged immediate use: “Families and congregations around the world should begin using all these hymns right away.” The hymnbook can be accessed through various platforms including Gospel Library app or ChurchofJesusChrist.org.