Hymn of the Week

Ed Hanson from Calvary Episcopal Church in Columbia writes about one of the most joyous expressions of hymn lyrics in the English language.

The Rev. Brooke Myers brings us the story of a hymn that was written during dark war times -- a theme that resonates with today's troubled times.

With words from an ailing poet and music from one of the most recognizable composers of the 20th Century, Mary Chapman introduces us to this week's hymn: At the name of Jesus.

Nick Bideler at St. Michael & St. George brings us the story of "Eternal Spirit of the living Christ," a tune that is very accessible to both choir and congregation.

David Sinden from St. Peter's shares a story of a hymn with a dramatic interlude that helps us appreciate the poets and composers who create sacred music.

The tune of this week's hymn has the distinction of being one of the first works coming from the African-American culture to enter a hymnal of a major Protestant denomination. Pat Partridge from Christ Church Cathedral brings us the story.

The Rev. Brooke Myers explains how hymns are chosen for each Sunday and brings us the story behind My Song is Love Unknown.

Ed Hanson from Calvary Church in Columbia shares his fascination of how tunes and texts get matched together and challenges us to have a little creative fun with meters.

David Sinden from St. Peter's in Ladue brings us a hymn that begins with a stark contrast between two crowns: one of cruelty and suffering versus one of heavenly exaltation.

Pat Partridge from Christ Church Cathedral brings us background on hymn traditionally written for a blessing of the crops.