The Enchiridion

Congregational Union of England & Wales

Extracts from Assembly Reports and Minutes of the Congregational Union of England & Wales, from copies of the Annual Year Books in Dr Williams's Library, London.

[ This file contains transcripts of extracts relevant to Hymn-book publications from Year Books for 1846 to 1953 inclusive (with some gaps where no relevant items were recorded). For short cuts to specified years, click on the required date.]

CYB 1846 p. 7 Annual Report to Assembly 12th May 1846

. . . In respect to the Publications of the Union, your Committee reports --

1. That the use of your Hymn Book has continued to extend, and its sale to increase very considerably through the past year. Two beautiful pearl editions will forthwith be issued, as no doubt great numbers will desire to possess this book of their devotions in the same superior form with others of the like class and use.

CYB 1847 p. 13 Annual Report to Assembly 11th May 1847

. . . The finances of the Union continue in a state of extreme difficulty. The ordinary contributed income of the Union has in no one year amounted to one hundred pounds. Some large occasional donations and bequests have alone rendered its continued operations, or even existence, possible. The profits on publications have been leaned on as a resource, but they are very inconsiderable. Your Hymn-book has alone yielded any profits at all, and these have been diminished by losses on all your other publications, the magazines alone excepted . . .

[ This anxiety over finance led eventually to the adoption of an Annual Subscription by churches as (one of the) conditions of membership of the Union. ]

CYB 1848 p. 18 Annual Report to Assembly 9th May 1848

. . . Your Hymn-book continues to advance in adoption and sale, with every reason to expect a like increase for the future. . . .

CYB 1849 p. 10 Annual Report to Assembly 8th May 1849

[ No specific references to hymnals ]

CYB 1850 p. 18 Annual Report to Assembly 7th May 1850

. . . In respect to your Publication department, your Committee report :--

First - That the sale of your Hymn-book continues steadily to increase; the demand for the year now reported having exceeded that for the year preceding by about one-tenth. . . .

CYB 1851 p. 22 Annual Report to Assembly 13th May 1851

. . .

Publications. -- Your Committee will now direct your attention to the publications of the Union . . . The Hymn-Book still maintains a large sale; a proof that it has secured a favourable reception in our churches, as a supplement to the incomparable Dr. Watts. Attention has already been called to one beautiful edition of this book, bound up with Dr. Watts's Psalms and Hymns, unabridged, in one volume, comprised within the thickness of half an inch. It should not be forgotten, that this Hymn-Book contains 120 hymns suited to family and private worship; thus rendering devotional aid in the closet and at thedomestic altar, as well as in the sanctuary - the book of the heart, at home and abroad! The same editions of Watts and the Congregational Hymn-Book have been bound with the Bible, in one beautiful volume, adapted to the young, and forming a very useful and acceptable present. . . .

CYB 1852 [ No Year Book was issued with this cover date. From 1853 onwards the cover date indicated the Year of publication, instead of the preceding Annual Assembly date as hitherto.

CYB 1853 p. 21 Annual Report to Assembly 11th May 1852

. . . The sale of the Hymn Book is steadily on the increase. The numbers sold last year were in advance of those of the preceding year, and the total number of copies put into circulation is nearly two hundred thousand. It cannot be too generally known, that the book is bound up with the whole of Dr. Watts's Psalms and Hymns in one volume. New editions are about to issue from the press, and the Committee hope that the work will, ere long, obtain that place in our churches which its value and relation to our Denomination require. . . .

CYB 1854 p. 37 Annual Report to Assembly 13th May 1853

. . . The sale of the "Congregational Hymn Book", in its various sizes, has been large, and has amounted to about £1150. New editions of this work, which is increasingly valued in our churches, are now passing through the press, and the Committee believe that its strong claims to denominational use will be growingly felt. . . .

CYB 1855 p. 22 Annual Report to Assembly 9th May 1854

. . . New editions of the "Congregational Hymn-book" have been published, and the sale of this work has gone beyond that of the previous year, and that to an extent which indicates the circulation to have exceeded y many hundreds that of any preceding year. . . .

CYB 1856 p.19 Annual Report to Assembly 8th May 1855

. . . The sale of the Hymn Book, in its various editions, has been considerable during the year, and equal to that of any former year, amounting, as it has, to more than twenty thousand copies. Application has been made to the Committee from different quarters to compile a new Hymn Book, with a view to meet the requirements of those congregations who wish to have one book, instead of Dr. Watts's Psalms and Hymns and a Supplement. As the subject of preparing such a work involves grave considerations, the Committee do not now further allude to it than to say, that the whole matter will be presented to this Assembly in a separate paper, for their calm and thoughtful consideration, and final decision. . . .

[ CYB 1856 p.23 Assembly 8th May 1855 ]

Report of the Committee on the Proposed New Hymn Book.

The Committee of the Congregational Union having been earnestly requested by many friends of the Denomination to undertake the preparation of a new Hymn Book, which should include such versions of the Psalms, and such Hymns of Dr. Watts and others, as may be deemed the most suitable for the public worship of Congregational churches, remitted the full consideration of the question to a Sub-committee, with an instruction to report on the desirableness, or otherwise, of their committing themselves to this work. The Sub-committee having met, and deliberately and fully considered the whole question submitted to them, unanimously returned a Report in which they said :--

"In the judgment of your Sub-committee it appears, on many accounts, most desirable that the Committee of the Union should adopt preparatory measures, with a view to secure the approbation of the next Annual Assembly of the design which has been proposed of compiling and publishing a New Congregational Hymn Book, intended to meet the views and wants of those churches who would prefer one comprehensive book, rather than the employing of Dr. Watts's Psalms and Hymns, with an Appendix or Supplement, such as the existing Congregational Hymn Book.

"In the opinion of your Committee, there is a rapidly-increasing feeling obtaining in the Congregational Churches of this country in favour of one book rather than two. There are many cases in which week-day services are held in school rooms or lecture rooms, and in which it is almost impossible to employ more than one book; and in many congregations, where two are still used, the confusion it entails, especially on strangers coming to our places of worship, and even on many persons who are regular worshippers, is so great, that much readiness has been evinced, on the part of many pastors and churches, to employ one collection which may meet all the requirements of social and public worship.

"Your Committee are of opinion, that there are ample materials within reach for the construction of such a Hymn Book of unexampled excellence; one which, by its commanding worth and superiority, would commend itself to many congregations who are looking out for such a compilation, and are only waiting to meet with it in order to effect the change. The multiplication of new congregations in London and the provinces, by means of our Chapel-building Associations, and by local efforts independently put forth, presents new openings and facilities for the introduction of such a book; the income derived from its sale would tend to increase the funds placed at the disposal of the Union for benevolent purposes; and the accomplishment of the work may, in various ways, promote the cause of evangelical truth and holiness in the churches of our faith and order.

"This work, if undertaken, will not, it is thought, interfere at all, at present, with the Congregational Hymn Book, the sale of which continues to be large and productive. The congregations now employing it will, in all probability, continue its use. A considerable number of churches will, most likely, always prefer to use Dr. Watts's Psalms and Hymns entire; to these your existing book will continue to supply a Supplement of great worth; and to others it will be increasingly endeared by association, and by the recollection of spiritual edification derived from its use.

"Admitting this undertaking to be desirable, the present time appears to the Committee to be a suitable one for effecting it. There are persons competent to the task, who are willing cheerfully to aid in the work; and the financial condition of the publishing department of the Union is in such a state, that it may be undertaken without producing any embarrassment or derangement in your monetary affairs.

"Your Committee do not venture to present, in any detailed form, their ideas of the specific character which this book should possess, and they will content themselves with observing, that it ought to include all the Psalms and Hymns of Dr. Watts which are proper for Congregational worship; that no inferior productions of modern times should find a place in it; but that it should contain all the best Hymns in the English language, having pre-eminent regard to those which are adapted to awaken and nourish spiritual life. They further think, that no time, labour, or expense should be spared in the production of a work which yields in importance to none which the Committee can undertake, and the influence of which cannot fail to be great on the present and future prosperity and unity of Congregational churches.

"They think that the work should be entrusted to ten or twelve brethren resident in London, who, with the officers of the Union, shall be responsible for its accomplishment; and that they should be aided by a corresponding Committee in the country, from whom valuable assistance may be expected."

The Committee of the Union approved this Report, and agreed to print it for extensive circulation in the Congregational Denomination, with a request that the persons to whom it was sent would kindly favour the Committee with an opinion on the design, and in the event of their approving it, to offer any suggestions they might think proper in relation to the construction of such a work.

To this circular upwards of 500 answers were returned, which have been carefully analysed by the Sub-committee to whom the further consideration of the subject has been referred, and by whom the following results have been ascertained :--

From several gentlemen who thus approve the undertaking, a great number of most valuable suggestions have been offered for the guidance of the Committee in constructing this book, for which they present their best thanks.

Your Committee, while fully aware of the grave responsibility of this undertaking, still feel, that having proceeded thus far in the matter, they ought not to shrink from carrying the design into effect, supposing it should be approved by the present Assembly. They, therefore, venture to present to you the following recommendations :--

1. That it be an instruction from this Assembly to the Committee of the Congregational Union to undertake the preparation of such a Hymn Book as that described in the Report now presented.

2. That it be compiled by an Executive Committee, consisting of not less than twelve gentlemen, assisted by a corresponding Committee, composed of ministers and others, residing in the country, who, by knowledge, taste, or influence, may be able to aid its completion; and that all competent persons be invited to aid the Executive Committee by suggesting less-known Hymns, and Collections of Hymns, which may be examined.

The Report having been read, it was moved by the Rev. Henry Allon, and seconded by Rev. J. Stoughton :--

"That the Report of the proceedings of the Committee of the Congregational Union, in reference to the publication of a new Hymn Book, be approved and adopted; and that the Committee do forthwith take the measures necessary to accomplish the object."

The propriety of the Union undertaking the preparation and publication of a

NEW TUNE BOOK

was considered, and the following resolution was moved by the Rev. James Hill, and seconded by James Peachey, Esq. :--

"That the Committee of the Union be instructed to take into their consideration the propriety of compiling a new Tune Book, suitable to the Psalms and Hymns used in Congregational worship; and that if, in their judgment, the compilation of such a book be desirable, they take measures forthwith for its preparation."

[ END, May 1855 NCHB report 1855 ]

[ 1856 p.61 ] Autumn Assembly, October 1855

Report on Hymn Book

Read at the request of the Committee, by the Rev. Henry Allon.

In conformity with the instructions of the Annual Assembly in May last, the Committee of the Union appointed an Executive Committee for the compilation of the new Hymn Book, consisting of sixteen persons, viz.:-- Rev. Henry Allon, Rev. Dr. Burder, Mr. Josiah Conder, Rev. Dr. Harris, Edward Swaine, Esq., Rev. J. Spence, M.A., Rev. T.G. Horton, Rev. T.W. Aveling, Rev. S.S. England, Rev. James Hill, Rev. J. Stoughton, Rev. J.B. Brown, B.A., and Rev. J. Sherman. -- Ex officio members, Rev. George Smith, Rev. Robert Ashton, Benjamin Hanbury, Esq.; and also a Corresponding Committee, consisting of about fifty of the principal ministers and laymen throughout the kingdom, by whose advice and suggestions the Executive Committee might be aided, and to whom they might submit their plans for the construction of the book, and the compositions which they proposed to insert.

The Executive Committee met for the first time on the 4th of June, and have continued to meet weekly for three hours, with the exception of four weeks in August and September. The following principles and regulations for their guidance were drawn up and approved by the Committee of the Union, and ordered to be printed :--

"1. That all the psalms and hymns proposed to be inserted be submitted to each member of the Corresponding Committee, at least seven days before they be finally decided on.

2. That the members be requested to ascertain, so far as they can, the judgment of ministerial brethren and other friends in their respective neighbourhoods.

3. That the members be asked to furnish a scheme or arrangement for the Hymn Book.

4. That ministers and others may aid the Committee by suggesting less-known hymns, or collections of hymns.

5. That they be solicited to point out, or make translations of hymns in the ancient or modern languages, that may be suited for congregational worship."

In conformity with these regulations, the Executive Committee proceeded, first, to the careful consideration of Dr. Watts's Psalms and Hymns, and in this labour they are still engaged. They have gone through the Psalter, and to the 125th hymn of the First Book, simply eliminating the compositions that in their judgment are suitable for insertion in the new book. The same process they propose with the Congregational Hymn Book. After which, they will proceed to the consideration of any other psalms or hymns that may be deemed worthy of insertion.

The arrangement of the book has occupied, and still occupies, the solicitous attention of the Executive Committee. They are happy to say, that they have received some valuable schemes from several members of the Corresponding Committee, as well as from their own individual members; but they have hitherto deferred the formal consideration of them, in the hope that other brethren will in like manner afford them their valuable aid.

They have also thankfully to acknowledge the kind compliance of several members of the Corresponding Committee, with their request to send them a revision of Dr. Watts's Psalter, or the completion of their own; and they earnestly request such co-operation from every member. They feel that their undertaking is arduous and important, and they have already derived important aid from the suggestions thus communicated to them. Their simple and only wish is, that the churches may be furnished with such a book as will best express and nurture their spiritual life and worship; and, in order to this result, they gladly welcome and carefully consider every suggestion that is made to them; and they attach very great importance to the various judgments of the honoured brethren who constitute the Corresponding Committee.

[ END, Oct. 1855 NCHB report ]

CYB 1857 p.21 Annual Report to Assembly 13th May 1856

. . . In harmony with a resolution of the last Annual Assembly, a Committee was nominated for the compilation of a new Hymn Book. Fifteen gentlemen resident in and about London, who were deemed every way qualified, were appointed the Executive Committee; and to these were added a Corresponding Committee of fifty persons in the country, who are giving their judicious and willing services in aid of the undertaking. It is intended that all the psalms and hymns of Dr Watts suited for congregational worship shall be inserted in the book, and that these shall be supplemented by the best hymns extant in our own language, by some originals, and by competent translations. The Executive Committee meet weekly, and devote much time and attention to the work. They feel it to be an undertaking of as much delicacy and difficulty as it is of importance. If they are enabled through the grace of God to accomplish this work efficiently, it will be a boon to those churches who may prefer one book to Dr. Watts and a Supplement, will add to the solemnity, delight, and edification of public worship, and hand down to ages yet unborn a faithful testimony, in spirited, tasteful, and appropriate verse, for those glorious truths which lie at the foundation of all individual Christian and church life.

It was also remitted to your Committee to consider the propriety of compiling a new Tune Book, suited to the psalms and hymns used in Congregational worship, and in harmony with the advanced state of sacred music. But it was found on inquiry by them, that the subject had been fully considered and approved by the Union seventeen years ago, and that it had been subsequently abandoned, in consequence of the difficulties which attended the execution of the design. Still anxious, if possible, to undertake a work which in the judgment of many was most desirable, the Committee addressed a letter to the members of the Corresponding and Executive Committees of the new Hymn Book, raising the question as to the desirableness, or otherwise, of their undertaking the publication of a Tune Book. In that letter, the considerations which had occured to your Committee for and against the proposition were clearly stated, and they asked the thoughtful attention of their correspondents to the various points which the proposition involved, and begged the favour of their opinion, in writing, on the design. The result has been, that, out of forty-eight replies, five only were in favour of the work being undertaken by the Union. Having thus appealed to the judgment of the persons most competent to aid your Committee in arriving at a wise decision, they have now to recommend that no further steps be taken in the matter.

. . .

. . . The publications of the Union have continued to obtain about their usual sale, with the exception of the Hymn Book, the demand for which has fallen below that of former years, and no increase can well be looked for at present, while the expectation of the forthcoming volume of hymns is indulged. . . .

[ 1857 p.31 ]

CHRISTIAN WITNESS, AND PENNY MAGAZINE.

On the motion of Henry Bateman, Esq.; seconded by the Rev. George Smith, it was resolved: --

"That the cordial thanks of this Assembly are due, and are hereby presented to the Rev. Dr. Campbell, for his valued and efficient services as the Editor of the Christian Witness and Christian's Penny Magazine , during the past year.

[ 1857 p.45 ]

THIRD SESSION, SATURDAY, MAY 17, 1856

On Saturday morning a Third Session of the Assembly was held in the Library of the Milton Club; the Rev. John Stoughton in the chair.

This Meeting being confidential, no report is given of its proceedings.

CYB 1857 p.46 Autumnal Meeting (1856)

In consequence of a controversy which had arisen among some members of the Union, it was deemed expedient, both by the friends at Cheltenham and the Committee in London, that the Autumnal Meeting in that town should be postponed.

CONFERENCE.

A conference of ministers and other gentlemen, from various parts of the kingdom, summoned by circulars issued by the Committee of the Union, was held at the Milton Club, September 23, 1856, to consider and adopt such recommendations as might tend to abate, and, if possible, to terminate the controversy alluded to in the previous paragraph.

REPORT OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE CONFERENCE.

Sixty-eight gentlemen from town and country were present. Prayer having been offered by Rev. T. Adkins, of Southampton; Rev. J. A. James, of Birmingham; and the Rev. J. Alexander, of Norwich; the Rev. George Smith, at the request of the Committee, proposed that the Rev. John Kelly, of Liverpool, should preside over the deliberations of the Conference. The motion was seconded by the Rev. John Stoughton, of Kensington, and carried unanimously.

Mr Smith briefly stated the means which had been adopted by the Committee of the Congregational Union in convening the Conference, and read he following Paper, explaining its reasons and objects: --

"While the Committee of the Congregational Union tender their thankful acknowledgements to the gentlemen who have, at some considerable sacrifice of time and convenience, responded to their invitation to attend this Conference, they deem it respectful to the persons now assembled, and on all accounts every way desirable, to place before them the circumstances which have led to the convening of this meeting; and, at the same time, to state the objects which are contemplated by the Conference, and to indicate, in general terms, the means by which it is thought they may, under the Divine blessing, be secured.

"At the last Annual Assembly of the Union it was very evident that a controversy which had obtained among some of our brethren, was producing unhappy effects on the harmony of the meetings, and that unless some means could be adopted for mutual explanations and reconciliation, great evils wold result in the interruption of that brotherly concord which had so long subsisted in the Union, and in producing a misapprehension of our position and opinions by persons from without. At the Saturday private meeting of the assembled pastors and delegates, after certain frank avowals and regrets had been uttered, it appeared to be felt on all hands that nothing but evil could result from the continuance of the controversy; and it was hoped and believed that it was from that time to cease and determine. Unhappily, this expectation soon proved itself unfounded, and the slumbering elements of discord awoke and found utterance through the medium of the press. In addition to this, notice of a motion for the Autumnal Meeting had been given, which appeared likely to revive and perpetuate a painful discussion at Cheltenham. The friends in that town, who had invited the Union to hold its approaching meeting there, became alarmed at the prospect of introducing to their peaceful churches a discussion on painfully controverted matters, and they informed the Committee, that unless the Resolution for considering the editorship of the Magazines was withdrawn or modified, and a reasonable assurance afforded that the meetings would be amicable and profitable, they absolutely declined to entertain the pastors and delegated of the Union. At the request of the Committee, the brother who had given notice of a motion to separate the Magazines from the Union, has agreed to their proposition to appoint a committee at the Autumnal Meeting, to consider that and other questions connected with the practical working of the Union, and to report thereon at the Annual Meeting in May, when the vote of the Assembly shall decide the question. On the ground of this arrangement, and on the further condition that a Conference should be held in London in September, with a view to the adoption of some judicious healing measures between contending brethren, the friends at Cheltenham have agreed to receive the Autumnal Assembly.

"The Committee feel the delicacy and difficulty of their position in assuming the responsibility of convening this Conference, and they wish, with all candour and confidence, to inform their brethren of their views and designs. They do not wish to make this meeting a court of appeal; they do not desire to humble one person or party, or give triumph to another; they do not wish to interfere with the freedom of fair, open, manly, Christian discussion; they do not desire that anyone should be prevented from animadverting on things which may be deemed defective or erroneous in theprinciples and practices of Congregational churches; but they do earnestly desire that the present unhappy controversy between beloved brethren connected with the Union should be brought to an end, and that without delay. They are confident that nothing but unmixed evil can result from its continuance. Already much mischief has been wrought by it. Persons unfriendly to us have taken the opportunity of most unjustly representing many of our faithful and devoted pastors as recreant to their ordination vows, and apostates from evangelical truth; brethren who have the strongest reason for mutual confidence and affection have, in part, been alienated from one another; the harmony and efficiency of the Union have been interrupted, and its very existence threatened by disputed matters, with which, in reality, it has had nothing to do, and with which it is only accidentally connected.

"The Committee wish to leave the course this Conference should take entirely open to the judgment of the assembled brethren, and to the discretion of your Chairman, in whose qualification for the office of Moderator they have the greatest confidence; but they venture to suggest, that the meeting ought not to separate without placing on record an expression of unabated attachment to the great evangelical principles which have always been warmly cherished and believed by the English Congregational churches, and which were never more dear to them than they are now; nor without, at the same time, uttering its conviction, that the advocacy of those principles should always be conducted in a living, Christian spirit of candour and truth. They further think that the best offices of the Conference should be employed to induce all the brethren who have engaged in the present controversy to lay it aside at once and for ever; and, while allowing for human infirmity, to give each other credit for integrity and for attachment to the same great principles. If the Conference is able to accomplish those objects, then it might accept the nomination of a Committee to be preposed at Cheltenham to consider other questions, which the Committee are ready to regard as open ones, in relation to the future constitution and working of the Union. In that case we might look forward tol a happy, holy, profitable gathering at the Autumnal Assembly.

"The Committee earnestly pray that he spirit of love and wisdom may guide all the deliberations of this day, and that the honour of our adorable Saviour, and the welfare of our churches, may, by its results, be abundantly promoted."

After anxious and lenthened consideration of the subjects adverted to in the above Paper, it was resolved, on the motion of the Rev. J. A. James, of Birmingham, which was seconded by Edward Baines, Esq., of Leeds: --

"That this Conference, composed of pastors and members of Congregational churches from London and from various parts of the country, having had their attention directed to the grave and painful differences which have, for some time past, existed between some highly esteemed brethren connected with the Congregational Union, venture respectfully, but earnestly, to entreat, that by such mutual concession and agreement as may be necessary, this controversy may at once be brought to an end; being deeply convinced that its continuance cannot fail, in various ways, to be injurious to the cause of Christian truth and charity, and disadvantageous to the welfare of the churches of our faith and order; and that these brethren be requested to submit the questions in dispute, if needed, so far as they are personal, to the arbitration of a select number of judicious friends, in whom they can exercise mutual confidence."

It was subsequently moved by Rev. S. M'All, of Nottingham: seconded by Rev. John Kennedy, M.A., of Stepney; and resolved: --

"That various charges of unfaithfulness to the sacred principles of evangelical truth having recently been made against the body of Congregational ministers, this meeting deem it incumbent to express their deep and deliberate conviction that such imputations are unfounded and unjust; and they hereby record their assurance, that the ministers of our churches, as a body, maintain an unabated attachment to those great Christian principles on which they have been incorporated from the time of their formation; but, while the meeting would earnestly commend a faithful adherence to the essential truths of the Gospel, and a prominent and unmistakeable exhibition of them in the pulpit, they would earnestly desire that a charitable construction should be put upon the terms in which they are expressed, and that they should, on all occasions, be maintained and vindicated in a Christian spirit."

Moved by Rev. Thomas James; seconded by Rev. Robert Ashton: --

"That the Minutes of this Conference, the paper read to it from the Committee, and the Resolutions adopted, be referred to the Committee of Arrangement for the Conference, to decide as to how and when they should be published."

Moved by Rev. T. Binney; seconded by Rev. Dr. Campbell: --

"That the best thanks of the Conference are hereby presented to the Rev. John Kelly for his valuable services in presiding over the deliberations of this day."

The Conference, which lasted twelve hours, was closed with prayer by the Chairman.

SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING.

As various important matters of business were put in abeyance by the postponement of the Autumnal Meeting, the Committee of the Union, at its sitting on Tuesday, October 5, 1856, adopted the following resolutions: --

"That this Committee, after careful and prolonged consideration of the question respecting the Autumnal Meeting of the Congregational Union, and having conferred with the Committee of Arrangement at Cheltenham, are induced to postpone the holding of the Autumnal Meeting of this Union in that town to a future period.

"That a Special General Meeting of the Union be held in London, in the month of January next, for the consideration of important business."

[ The Chairman of the CUEW for the year 1856-7 was John Stoughton, minister of Kensington Chapel; John Kelly, minister of Crescent Congr. Church Everton, had been Chairman for the year 1851-2. ]

CYB 1858 p.35 Annual Report to Assembly 12th May 1857

. . . Returning to a more direct review of your own concerns, it may be reported that the Hymn Book Committee have been steadily attending to the important work entrusted to their care. They were constituted in May, 1855, and held their first meeting in the following month. They have subsequently had seventy-one meetings, which is mentioned as a proof that they are earnestly endeavouring to construct a work which shall realise all the reasonable expectations indulged concerning it. The Psalms are selceted, revised, and completely prepared for the press. The Hymns are likewise collected and classified. They are undergoing careful revision, with a view to reduce the selected number within the bounds to which the book will be confined, and which is to include about a thousand compositions. Your Committee are anxious that the original instruction of the Assembly, that the work should retain all the compositions of Dr. Watts which are adapted to Congregational worship, should be fully carried out; and they are concerned that the work should be completed with all the speed compatible with efficiency. It is intended to print a limited edition for the inspection and judgment of the Corresponding Committee in different parts of the country, and of other persons whose opinions may be of service in guiding the Committee to a final conclusion in reference to all the details of the book. Impatience has naturally enough been felt, and occasional complaint uttered, at the delay of its appearing; but the labour involved in the work is great, and the expectation that the Hymn Book will be widely used in the Denomination, and will for ages to come be employed in the worship of our churches, demands and justifies the exercise of the the time and toil requisite to make it worthy of the growing acceptance after which it aspires.

Your existing publications continue to obtain their usual sale. . . . The Congregational Hymn Book has circulated largely during the year, but not fully to the extent of former years, the falling off being accounted for in the fact that many congregations are waiting for the new Hymn Book.

CYB 1859 p.20 Annual Report to Assembly 11th May 1858

. . . It is with much satisfaction that your Committee are enabled at length to announce to you that the "New Congregational Hymn-Book", which for three years has occupied the attention of the Committee appointed to compile it, has now passed through the press, and that a copy of the book is about to be presented to your chairman to-day. The work has been delayed beyond what the wishes of your Committee, and the importunity of many who are waiting for it, could have desired; but the delay has been unavoidable. The labour has been much greater than was first imagined; and the Committee were anxious that the work should be as complete and perfect as the utmost diligence on their part could make it. The edition now printed is intended to be open to observation, and to elicit candid criticism. The opinions of the Corresponding Committee and of other friends on it will be invited. It will then undergo a final revision by the executive Committee, be stereotyped, and published in various editions. The Committee anticipate for the work a favourable reception and wide circulation. They are of the opinion that it will justify all the expectations indulged concerning it, and be the means of greatly promoting the edification of the churches who may adopt it.

The publications of the Union continue to circulate without any great alteration. The existing "Congregational Hymn-Book", notwithstanding the fact that many congregations are looking to the "New Hymn-Book" has been largely called for, and to an extent almost equal to that of any former year. . . .

CYB 1860 p.22 Annual Report to Assembly 10th May 1859

. . . You will be gratified to know that your publications continue to find favour and circulation . . . while the sale of the Congregational Hymn Book, for the year ending March 31, 1859, has greatly exceeded that of any former year.

Four years ago the Assembly of the Union gave directions for the compilation of a new Congregational Hymn Book, with a view to meet the wishes of those congregations who think one book preferable to Dr. Watts and a Supplement. It was intended that the work should include all the poetical compositions of Watts best adapted to congregational worship, and such other superior hymns and psalms as the language could supply. That work is now finished, and published this day. The lengthened time employed in its preparation was demanded by the importance of the work; and the period which has elapsed since a proof edition was printed, was needful to make the numerous improvements suggested in it. It is now completed, in perfect harmony with the principles approved by the Assembly; and the Committee venture to believe that it will meet a favourable reception, be largely introduced to our churches, and be the means of greatly promoting their edification. The best thanks of the Union are due and are hereby presented to the committee who undertook the work, and pursued it to its completion.

CYB 1861 p.15 Annual Report to Assembly 8th May 1860

. . . It is gratifying to your Committee to report that the publications of the Union have commanded a sale equal to that of any former year. . . . The Congregational Hymn-Book is in constant demand.

At the last Annual Meeting, the New Hymn-Book was reported to be complete. Some time, however, elapsed before it could be put into circulation. It has met with a cordial approval, equalling the expectations of your Committee. Several congregations have already adopted it; more than 30,000 copies have been put into circulation. To the corresponding and executive committees, who lent valuable aid in compiling the volume, the best thanks of your Committee have been presented; and they cannot forbear to remark, that to your Finance and Publication Committee the Union is deeply indebted, as they supply from the profits of your publications the deficiency which is annually found in the contributions from its members. They would hope thag our churches will yet, by more general contributions, furnish the means to work the organization, so that the profits of these publications may, as originally intended, be devoted to benevolent objects.

CYB 1861 pp. 59-74 Autumnal Assembly Minutes, Third Session, 27th September 1860

. . .

The Rev. H. M. Gunn [ Henry Mayo Gunn ] was now requested to read the Paper prepared on this subject at the solicitation of the Wilts and Easr Somerset Congregational Union.

. . .

[ p.74 ] Moved . . . and unanimously adopted: --

"That the cordial thanks of the Assembly be presented to the Rev. Henry Mayo Gunn for his interesting and admirable Paper on Psalmody; and this Assembly requests that he will place it in the hands of the Committee, for publication among the Minutes of the Session, and as a separate tract for general circulation."

[ texts of Advertisements appearing in the Congregational Year Book 1861, inserted by the publishers Ward & Co. ]

Weigh-House Series.

Congregational Church Music.

Psalms and Hymns for Chanting.

Practice Songs for Classes,

&c. &c.

 

Numbered List of the

Editions and Bindings of the

Various Works in this Series.

The term "Weigh-House Series" has been adopted as a convenient and distinctive General Title for these works, any of which may be ordered by mentioning the Number prefixed to it on pages 6, 7, and 8. The prices there given are retail prices; but Congregations or Classes purchasing Wholesale, may obtain the usual discount by applying direct to the Publishers.

 

London:

Ward & Co., 27, Paternoster Row, E.C.;

G.Unwin, 31, Bucklersbury, E.C.

Manchester: Fletcher & Tubbs.

November 1860

 

Weigh-House Series

Tunes, Chants, Anthems.

The Enlarged

Congregational Church Music

 

Contains 260 Tunes, 46 Chants, and 24 Congregational Anthems, selected after a diligent examination of above 300 English and Foreign collections of Church Music, and carefully harmonised by the following Contributors :--

 

Mrs. M. Batholomew,

H.E.Dibdin, Esq.,

John Goss, Esq.

Rev. W.H. Havergal, M.A.,

The late William Horsley, Esq.,

 

E.J.Hopkins, Esq.,

Dr. Lowell Mason,.

Vincent Novello, Esq.,

James Turle, Esq.,

and others.

 

Both Tunes and Harmonies are marked by "plainness and simplicity." It supplies above 80 metres, and provides for every hymn, except three in very peculiar metres, in the New Congregational Hymn-book, and for all important metres in the Leeds and Baptist books. It is printed on superfine paper, and has very complete Indexes

 

Congregational Church Music consisted originally of 163 Tunes only. A Part, containing 24 Anthems and 22 Chants, was published a few years ago, and a Supplement of 95 Tunes and 24 Chants is now just added. each of these may be had separately, or in the following combinations :--

 

The Enlarged Work, complete; containing all the Tunes, Chants and Anthems. (See Nos. 1-12.)

 

The Enlarged Work, without the Anthems; containing the Tunes and Chants only. (See Nos. 13-22.)

 

The Original Work, with the Anthems; containing the original 163 Tunes, with the Anthems and Chants. (See Nos. 23-32.)

 

The Original Work, without the Anthems; containing the original 163 Tunes only. (See Nos. 33-41.)

 

The Anthems and Chants alone. Having a separate title, index, and numbering, this may be used as a Supplement to any Tune-book. (See Nos. 42-48.) To facilitate the use of the Anthems, the words are published separately. (See No. 49.)

 

The New Supplement, containing 119 Tunes or Chants. This will only be sold separately for a limited period, to enable those who have the original work to obtain it. (See Nos. 51-58.)

 

Congregational Church Music is now published in five different forms, three of them being in the Ordinary Notation, and two in Mr Curwen's Tonic-Sol-fa Notation, as below. All the various divisions of the Work, as given on the preceding page, may be had in these five forms, at prices which will be found under the respective headings on pages 6 and 7.

 

etc.

[ END of Ward & Co.'s Advt. ]

CYB 1862 p.27 Annual Report to Assembly 7th May 1861

. . . In reporting on the publications of the Union during the year, . . . Four tracts have been added to the series during the year, and the one on Congregational Psalmody, by the Rev. Henry Mayo Gunn, has obtained a large circulation, and is earnestly commended as every way entitled to yet more general attention.

. . . Of the Congregational Hymn-book upwards of 15,500 have been sold -- a proof that it is still highly valued as a supplement to the Psalms and Hymns of Dr. Watts. The New Congregational Hymn-book has rapidly obtained a wide and growing approbation in England and in the Colonies. The Congregational Union of Victoria at its first meeting unanimously adopted the following resolution: -- "That the present meeting, consisting of ministers and delegates of churches, having taken into consideration the use of the New Congregational Hymn-book as the organ of our psalmody, do recommend its speedy adoption by all the churches, on account of its superior character, and of the manifold advantages connected with the general use of "`One Hymn-book.'"

You will be gratified to learn that nearly 120,000 copies of this book have been sold in the short space of less than two years.

CYB 1863 p.29 Annual Report to Assembly 13th May 1862

. . . The Congregational Hymn-book, still extensively used as a supplement to Dr. Watts's Psalms and Hymns, is largely called for, no less than 11,931 having been sold during the past year. The new Congregational Hymn-book is rapidly winning its way to extended use and favour. The number sold during the year is 59,661; and its total sale in three years has been 164,145 copies.

CYB 1864 p. 34 Committee Report to Annual Assembly 12th May 1863

. . . Your Committee are happy to report that . . . your hymn books are obtaining an increasing circulation. During the past year nearly nine thousand of the Congregational Hymn-book have been sold, and during the same period the sale of the New Congregational Hymn-book has been 57,578 copies, making a total of 221,723 copies since the first publication, in May, 1859.

CYB 1865 p.10 Committee Report to Annual Assembly 10th May 1864

. . . With unmingled satisfaction your Committee regard the increasing circulation of the New Congregational Hymn-book. In all directions they are assured that it is highly valued in the congregations that have adopted it. More than seventy thousand copies of it have been circulated during the past year, making a total of three hundred thousand copies during the five years it has had an existence. The Committee, encouraged by the extensive circulation it has obtained, have made a considerable reduction in the prices of all the editions, and have made arrangements for the publication of a large edition, in an unusually cheap, yet beautiful form, which will bring it without difficulty within the reach of the children and young people of our congregations.

The profits of the hymn-book hitherto have exceeded the expectations of the Committee, who have thus been enabled to supply the deficiency in the income of the Union and to make liberal votes to various benevolent institutions connected with Congregationalism. . . .

CYB 1866 p.33 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 9th May 1865

. . .

THE PUBLICATIONS OF THE UNION

continue to present one encouraging feature of your operations. . . . The `Congregational Hymn-book,’ as might be expected, is gradually diminishing in its yearly sale; while the `New Congregational Hymn-book,’ is steadily increasing in the area of its circulation, and the number of copies sold. Your Committee last year made a considerable reduction in the price of all the various editions, and they have printed an impression of twenty thousand copies, in double columns, and neatly bound, with gilt edges, as a special edition, which can be obtained in quantities by congregations and schools, at one shilling per copy. Nearly the whole of this edition is sold off. Over ninety-one thousand copies of this book, in its different editions, were sold during the past year, which makes a total issue of about three hundred and thirty-nine thousand copies of all sizes from the beginning.

[ 1866 p.86 ]

C.U.E.W. Autumnal Meeting: Second Session, 25th October 1865

REPORT ON HYMN BOOKS.

Rev. R.Ashton read the following Report thereon: --

The Committee have published two entirely new Editions in place of the 32mo and 18mo, which have been in use from the beginning.

The ordinary 32mo is replaced by a handsome royal 32mo, and published at the same price as the former editions. The ordinary 18mo is replacedby a handsome royal 18mo, and no alteration is made in the price.

The smallest edition, 48mo, is published in purple roan only. The Committee, desirous that the children in our Sunday-schools should use it more extensively, have resolved to bind the book also in limp cloth, cut edges, which will be sold at 8d per copy, or 6d wholesale.

COTTAGE HYMN- BOOK.

Anxious still further to create a desire for the New Congregational Hymn-book, the Committee have prepared two specimen editions of the Hymn-book in an abridged form, for cottage meetings and for Sunday-schools.

First, the Congregational Cottage Hymn-book, containing 150 hymns, is intended to be an introduction to the use of the larger book.

There is no lack of penny and twopenny Hymn-books, designed for social worship, prayer-meetings, and cottage services. They vary in size and merit and adaptation. Some of these books may possibly be found among our village chapels and mission stations. Still the Committee, feeling the desirableness of uniform praise as much as possible, -- both in the more private and social worship of our friends, and in our Church Services, -- have judged it right to prepare a small book, selected exclusively from the New Congregational Hymn-book, for the use of persons when meeting for worship in cottages, halls, drawing-rooms, and other places, where a large number of books is required by the worshippers, and where it would be inconvenient and too expensive to keep a supply of the larger books.

The hymns being selected from the new Congregational Book, persons having the larger complete volume at hand will be at no loss for the hymns announced for singing in the more private worship, as the smaller copy will have, not only the regular successive numbers from 1 to 150, but also the number of the hymn selected from the larger book placed at the head of each hymn.

It is thought, too, that such an edition will be prized as a Pocket Companion, to be used when travelling or at rest, or as a help to devotion, both in the closet and in the chamber of suffering.

The use of the abridgment will create a desire for the full volume; persons gathered from private rooms and mission stations into our congregations, being familiar with the hymns in the Cottage Book, will seek to possess the book in use in the public worship of the Church.

The Committee, therefore, commend this proposal to publish a Congregational Cottage Hymn-book to your favourable regard, when such book shall have been approved by a Committee of revision which you may appoint.

SUNDAY-SCHOOL HYMN-BOOK

The other abridged volume is that of the Congregational Sunday School Hymn-book.

This little book is designed as a Primer of Song for the children of our schools and families; a preparation for the praises of the sanctuary; a selection containing hymns to be stored in the memory, which will ever and anon be springing up in the youthful mind, and will not be forgotten amid the turmoils of life and in the last conflict with disease and death.

A feeling has been growing for some time past amongst the more thoughtful and intelligent Sabbath-school Teachers and Superintendents, that many of the Sunday-school Hymn-books contain hymns unsuitable alike in sentiment and in measures for the gravity of worship and for the sanctity of the Sabbath. Too many are mere moral and sentimental songs, innocent and harmless enough as designed for diversion and pleasure at home, or the day-school, or at work on the week-days; while the tunes to which some of them are sung are more befitting the saloon and the dance than the school, which ought to be regarded as the vestibule of the Church, and its scholars as under training for the service of God. The natural tendency of such hymns and tunes is to create a distaste for the graver songs and airs required in public worship.

There are indeed some children’s hymns of a livelier kind, which have been so thoroughly incorporated with the singing of the school, that it would be unwise on the part of any reformers to ignore them, or to attempt to exclude them from Hymn-books prepared for youthful worship, especially for very young children. They appear desirable to be retained, as affording variety in the “Service of Song,” and as adapted to the cheerfulness and vivacity so beautiful to witness in the early stages of childhood and youth. Extremes should be avoided, and the chief object of Sunday-schools should not be overlooked. Some hymns will necessarily be of a higher order of sentiment, and of a more experimental character, than children can at present thoroughly understand or feel. Still they can, for the most part, comprehend something of their meaning, and may be prepared thereby to sing them hereafter alike from memory and with the melody of the heart. Some of the most popular hymns in our Sunday-schools, such as -- “When I can read my title clear;” “Come, we that love the Lord;” “All hail the power of Jesus’ name,” -- must be regarded as hymns for the future, than as utterances in full accord with the present of a child’s experience. Such hymns are found in all Sunday-school collections, of which there is a goodly number in use throughout the country, and all more or less adapted for the purpose designed.

The Committee, keeping in mind the relation of the Sunday-school to the Church, and of the worship of the school to the worship of the sanctuary, resolved to compile a book for Sunday-school worship in our own congregations especially, from the hymns contained in the New Congregational Hymn-book. One hundred and twenty suitable hymns have been selected, to which there is an appendix of thirty hymns, obtained from other sources, specially adapted for younger children; such as “Around the throne of God in heaven;” “I want to be like Jesus;” “I think when I read thatg sweet story,” &c.

The Committee would not venture on publication without first consulting the Assembly, and obtaining its sanction; and therefore they ask your concurrence in the project, and in the appointment of a Committee of revision, who, with the compilers of the specimen selections, shall in your name prepare and publish a Cottage and a Sunday-school Hymn-book at the earliest moment possible.

Moved by Rev. R. Ashton; seconded by Rev. Thomas James: --

“That this Assembly approves of the Report of the Publication Committee respecting the New Edition of the Hymn-books; and, convinced of the importance of having the proposed editions for Cottage Meetings and Sunday-schools, instructs the Committee to publish such books as early as convenient;

“And, with a view to render these books as complete as possible, requests the following gentlemen to be a Committee of revision, to assist the Sub-committee in the preparation and publication of the works proposed: --

“The Chairman of the Union, Rev. J. Kennedy, M.A., Charles Reed, Esq., Rev. H. Allon, Rev. Dr. Unwin, Rev. T. W. Aveling, Henry Lee, Esq., Rev. J. G. Rogers, B.A., Alfred Rooker, Esq., Rev. J.L.Poore, -- with power to add to their number.

CYB 1867 p.33 Committee Report to Annual Assembly 8th May 1866

. . . The publications of the Union continue to receive the approbation of the Denomination . . .

The smaller Congregational Hymn Book designed for prayer-meetings, cottage services, and family worship, has been published at the price of twopence, in paper covers; threepence in cloth; and fourpence in leather. Extensive approbation of this little book has reached the Committee, and several congregations have already adopted it, and the Committee trust it will have a large circulation. The Congregational Sunday-school Hymn Book has not yet been published. The Revision Committee appointed at Bristol almost unanimously reached the conclusion that a small book containing hymns only to be found in the New Congregational Hymn Book, with a limited appendix, would not meet the wants of our schools, and that it would be better to compile a little volume of two hundred hymns, selected from all available sources, including as many as possible from the larger hymn-book. They felt, however, that they would not be justified in issuing a work constructed on this principle without the approval of this Assembly, which they hope will be accorded. The hymns have already been selected by the Revision Committee, and only await your approval of the principle of selection before being printed in the specimen copies to be submitted to the inspection of ministers and gentlemen connected with Sunday-schools in various parts of the Kingdom. Opinions will be invited on the book before publication by the Committee, to whom the matter was referred by the Assembly at Bristol.

The sale of the New Congregational Hymn Book during the year amounted to 102,743 copies, making a total of considerably more than half a million since its first publication in 1859. The Committee have reduced the price, and improved the form of the various editions, and they are gratified in knowing that in all respects the book is increasingly valued.

[ 1867 p.97 ] Autumnal Assembly 9th October 1866

SUNDAY-SCHOOL HYMN BOOK.

The Rev. R. Ashton read the following Report: --

“The special Committee appointed at the last autumnal meeting prepared a Sunday-school Hymn Book, on the principle approved and adopted by the Annual Assembly in May last.

“They had a small edition of 250 copies printed, and sent nearly the whole edition to various persons in different part of the metropolis and the country, requesting opinions, criticisms, and suggestions.

“Numerous replies have been received. By nearly every correspondent the book is highly approved as a whole, though occasional omissions are suggested, and the introduction of some special favourites are recommended.

“A pretty general opinion obtains that the number of the hymns should be increased. Some fifty or one hundred more hymns are thought desirable, thus making the whole number about 300.

“With this correspondence before them, and more that may probably arrive in a few days, the Committee have thought it expedient to enter on a revision of the book with a view to its improvement and enlargement, and, therefore, beg to be allowed only to report progress, and to assure the Assembly that the book shall be prepared with all possible care and speed.

“The Committee cannot conclude their Report without presenting sincere thanks to their correspondents, both ministers and superintendents of Sabbath-schools, for the valuable assistance they have rendered.”

Resolution moved by Rev. R. Ashton, seconded by Rev. W. J. Unwin, LL.D.: --

“That the interim Report now read be adopted; that the Committee be requested to publish a small experimental edition as early as convenient, to be obtained on application at the publishers’; and that the general edition be not published till after the sanction of the Assembly in May next.”

SPECIAL PRAYER

was offered by Rev. Enoch Mellor, M.A., in reference to the sanitary and religious condition of the country.

[ end of First Session ]

CYB 1868 p.25 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 7th May 1867

. . . Your Committee are able to report satisfactorily in relation to your publications.

. . . As might be expected, the sale of the original Congregational Hymn-book is nearly brought to an end, the work being all but universally superseded by the New Congregational Hymn-book. During the past year 94,795 copies of this work have been sold, making a total of 599,206 from the first publication. The smaller Hymn-book, for Cottage and Vestry services, is gradually extending its circulation, more than 15,500 copies having been sold during the year. The Special Committee appointed by the Assembly to prepare a Congregational Sunday-school Hymn-book, have availed themselves of many valuable suggestions from ministers and superintendents of Sunday-schools, with a view to make the work as perfect as possible. They have published a small experimental edition, as directed by the last Autumnal Meeting, and with the approval of this Assembly they purpose forthwith to issue the general edition. Your Committee are not without hope, that this work, completing, as it will, the list of Congregational Hymn-books, may prove a great and lasting blessing to our Sunday schools, contributing at once to the improvement of devotion and the cultivation of poetic taste.

The Committee, having reduced the prices of the Hymn-books to the lowest remunerative point, find themselves, notwithstanding a greatly increased circulation, in the possession of a smaller available fund for benevolent purposes than in former years. . . .

[ 1868 p.25 ]

THE SUNDAY-SCHOOL HYMN BOOK.

Moved by the Rev. Josiah Miller, M.A.; seconded by the Rev. John Hallett: --

“The Committee having reported that the Congregational Sunday-school Hymn Book had been printed, as ordered by the Assembly at Sheffield; that specimen copies had been widely circulated, and that the Hymn Book moreover had obtained general favour, it is hereby Resolved --

“That the Committee be authorized to make the final corrections in the Congregational Sunday-school Hymn Book, and print and publish the same with as little delay as possible.”

CYB 1869 p.31 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 12th May 1868

. . . It is a gratifying circumstance that the publications of the Union continue to circulate largely amongst our Churches: the Tracts, Manual, and the Church records are in constant, steady demand. The New Congregational Hymn Book has an undiminished circulation; ninety-three thousand eight hundred and eighty-nine copies have been sold during the year, making a total of nearly seven hundred thousand from its first publication. The cheapness of the book is one secret of its popularity; and the Committee have in view a still further reduction of price in most of the editions. Having published a beautiful but very cheap edition for the children and young people of your congregations, they have now resolved on issuing a cheap edition for the aged poorer members, reducing the price of the crown 8vo., large type, in a strong but plain binding, to three shillings. Eleven thousand of the smaller Hymn-book, for cottage and vestry services, have been sold during the last twelve months; and the Sunday-school Hymn-book, though recently published, has attained a circulation of more than sixteen thousand. . . .

CYB 1870 p.27 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 11th May 1869

. . . Your Committee are happy to report that the publications of your Union are still obtaining a large circulation. . . . About twenty thousand of the Sunday-school Hymn-book have been circulated, and gradually the work is obtaining favour in our schools. Nearly ten thousand copies of the smaller Congregational Hymn-book have been sold, and more than eighty-two thousand five hundred of the New Congregational Hymn-book. The publishing prices of the work having been carefully revised, the Publication Committee have reduced the prices of ten different forms of the book, and effected several improvements in the style and quality of the bindings.

The profits arising from your publications are still considerable; and, after supplying the deficiency of the annual subscriptions in the expenses incurred in conducting the business of the Union, leave a large sum for benevolent purposes. . . .

CYB 1871 p.19 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 10th May 1870

. . .

LITERATURE.

. . . The Old Congregational Hymn Book is now nearly extinct. No further reprints will be made. The New Congregational Hymn Book still maintains its hold among the Churches. More than three-quarters of a million copies have been sold during the ten years of its publication. The copies sold this year alone have been 90,238, besides 8,713 of Cottage Hymn Book, and nearly 20,000 copies of Sunday-school Hymn Book. The prices of the Hymn Book have been reduced from time to time. A reduction in ten editions took place last year.

[ 1871 p.101 ]

Autumnal Assembly 10-13th October 1870: Papers read by various people . . .

(including)

[ pp. 101-108 ]

CYB 1872 p.23 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 9th May 1871

LITERATURE

. . .

SUPPLEMENT TO HYMN-BOOK

Another question in the department of literature with which the Committee have had to deal is that of the preparation of a Supplement to the Hymn-book. They do not care to disguise the reluctance with which they took this question up, but they judged that the Union having, with a view to aid the Churches in their worship, published the New Congregational Hymn-book, and that Hymn-book having been very generally accepted, should make such improvements in it from time to time as may fit it to meet the want of the churches, or as may be necessary to the maintenance of its position, as the book of praise in general use in the Congregational body. They do not think that the time has come for the publication of a new edition of the Hymn-book, but that, considering that since its publication a great change of opinion and feeling has taken place in the Churches, with regard to the forms which the service of praise should assume; that, in the same interval, a very large addition has been made to the number of good hymns suitable for Congregational worship; and that, if the defects of the Hymn-book for present use are not made good by the Union, the matter will certainly be taken out of its hands, to the detriment of its property; and the inconvenient multiplication of Hymn-books, -- the time has come for taking a step by which at once present wants shall be met, and a preparation made for such more thorough change as may be subsequently found desirable. They therefore propose that a Supplement to the Hymn-book shall be prepared; and a resolution to this effect will be submitted to you in the course of the proceedings.

[ 1872 p.30 ] Second Session, 12th May 1871

. . .

SUPPLEMENT TO THE NEW CONGREGATIONAL HYMN BOOK.

Moved by Rev. Dr. Mullens, and seconded by W. Groser, jun., Esq., and carried with two or three dissentients --

“That this Assembly approves of the proposal of the Committee to publish a Supplement to the New Congregational Hymn Book, and remits it to them to take immediate steps for carrying the resolution into effect.”

CYB 1873 p.6 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 6th May 1872

. . .

SUPPLEMENT TO HYMN-BOOK.

The Committee, acting on an instruction adopted by the last annual meeting, have been engaged in the preparation of a supplement to the Congregational Hymn-book, and they are glad to be able to report that the draft edition is in the press.

CYB 1874 p.6 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 12th May 1873

. . .

SUPPLEMENT TO HYMN-BOOK. -- The supplement to the Congregational Hymn-Book has required more time and labour than was anticipated. The Editorial Committee, anxious to adapt it to the felt wants of the churches, and to make it as complete as possible, placed a draft in the hands of a number of pastors and others, whose tastes and studies made it desirable that they should be consulted. “In the multitude of counsellors there is safety;” but there is also delay. One edition is now ready, however, with the exception of the final correction of the proofs, which is in progress. The other editions will be put in hand immediately after a clean proof has been secured; and it is hoped that, before the Autumnal Meeting, the book will already have been put to the test of actual use in not a few congregations.

[ 1874 p.81 ] Autumnal Assembly 14th October 1873

At the conclusion of the [Chairman’s] Address, the Rev. A. Hannay made a general statement respecting the Supplement to the Hymn Book; the College Conference; . . . [ &c.]

CYB 1875 p.6 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 11th May 1874

. . .

SUPPLEMENT TO THE CONGREGATIONAL HYMN BOOK

The Supplement to the Congregational Hymn Book is now on sale, apart, and bound up with all sizes of the Hymn Book, except the 48mo. The Committee hope that it will in the course of time be generally accepted by the churches, and that it will be a material aid to them in their service of song.

CYB 1876 p.44 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 13th May 1875

. . .

ABRIDGED CONGREGATIONAL HYMN-BOOK.

The smaller Congregational Hymn-Book, published by the Union several years ago, having been found insufficient for the ends it was meant to serve, a new selection has been substituted for it, under the title of “The Abridged Congregational Hymn-Book.” This book, which contains 270 hymns, selected from the “Congregational Hymn-Book and Supplement,” will, it is hoped, come largely into use in lecture-rooms, at mission-stations, and in families. Two editions have been published at an unremunerative price, and another edition in larger print is passing rapidly through the press.

[ nothing re hymn-books in 1877 and 1878 CYBs ]

CYB 1879 p.34 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 6th May 1878

. . .

HYMN-BOOK. -- The Hymn-book and Supplement, in all their editions, continue to have a large sale, the number of copies sent out by the publishers during the year 1877 being 132,100, as against 122,986 copies in the year preceding. The Committee, anxious to give to the churches all the advantage arising from the well-established popularity of the book which is consistent with the fair maintenance of its value as the property of the Union, and to meet in every resonable way the convenience of those who use it, have made arrangements for the issue of two new editions -- one in double-column 16mo, bound in cloth, to be sold (including the Supplement) at 1s., and one in double-column crown 8vo, in larger type than either of the double column editions now in use. When these editions are ready, the Committee will issue a revised price-list; and, as the issue of the new cheap edition will enable the less wealthy members of the churches to buy the Hymn-book with Supplement for 4d. less than they have at present to pay for the Hymn-book alone in that form, the Committee do not intend after that date to issue the Hymn-book without the Supplement. The Supplement, however, will continue for some time to be sold apart, for the convenience of those who wish to have it.

CYB 1880 p.42 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 12th May 1879

. . .

PUBLICATIONS. -- In regard to publications there is little of special importance to note. The sale of the hymn-book continues at the high average which the last few years have established. The number of copies sold in 1877 was 132,100, in 1878, 135,150, being a difference in favour of last year of 3,050. A new Sunday-school hymn-book is being compiled, the Rev. G. S. Barratt, B.A., having, at the request of the Committee, undertaken the editorship. . . .

CYB 1881 p.44 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 10th May 1880

. . .

PUBLICATIONS. -- In the department of publications there is little that is novel to report. . . . The sale of hymn-books during the year has been maintained on the scale which the last few years have established. The new Sunday-School Hymn-book is nearly ready for the press.

CYB 1882 p.3 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 9th May 1881

. . .

PUBLICATIONS. -- In regard to publications, your Committee have to report that the sale of hymn-books during the year has been maintained at the full average of late years; the new special edition, sold at one shilling, having a larger sale than any edition previously issued. The new hymn-book for Sunday-schools, under the title, "Congregational Hymnal or Book of Praise for the Young," is now on sale in six editions, ranging in price from twopence to sixteen-pence per copy. This book, which has been very carefully edited, will, the Committee hopes, occupy a good place among the numerous books of praise lately provided for use in Sunday-schools and families. . . .

[ Also recommended: from next year 1883, only Chairman's addresses, not other lectures/papers, to be printed in Y/bk. ]

CYB 1883 p.8 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 8th May 1882

. . .

PUBLICATIONS. -- . . . [ little to report ] . . .

CYB 1884 p.9 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 7th May 1883

. . .

A demand has for some time been made from several quarters for the publication of a Hymnal, with or without music, which might be used by congregations who prefer it to the "Congregational Hymn Book", and the Committee has agreed to the appointment of a Special Committee to consider and report how such a work should be compiled and published.

CYB 1885 p.9 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 6th May 1884

. . .

The Special Committee appointed to make arrangements for the compilation and publication of a Hymnal for the use of those churches which desire a substitute for the present Congregational hymn-book, has made considerable progress in its labours, but has not yet completed them. It will probably be able, however, to present a final report at the meeting of the Committee in the month of July.

CYB 1886 p.6 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 11th May 1885

. . .

CONGREGATIONAL HYMNAL. -- The "Congregational Hymnal" which is being prepared by the Rev. G.S.Barrett, B.A., aided by a consultative committee, is making steady progress, the editor's independent labour in the selection of hymns being nearly completed. The intention of the Committee is that the Hymnal shall include about 800 hymns, all available for congregational use, a selection of psalms, pointed for chanting, and a limited number of anthems. The editor has adopted the principle of ascertaining, when possible, the original text, and, as far as practicable, adhering to it. Editions will be published with music, and other editions with the hymns and the words of the chants and anthems only. he musical editorship has been undertaken by E.J.Hopkins, Esq., Mus. Doc., Organist to the Hon. Societies of the Inner and Middle Temples, with whom the final responsibility will rest in the selection and arrangement of tunes, but who will be assisted by a consultative committee composed of Congregational organists and choir-leaders, whose experimental knowledge will, it is assumed, secure the adoption of a body of music specially fitted to serve the churches as a vehicle and aid of their worship. It is not intended on the publication of the Hymnal to withdraw the Congregational Hymn-Book, or to limit the facilities which now exist for obtaining it in convenient forms and at a cheap rate. So long as it is saleable it will be kept in stock.

CYB 1887 p.8 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 10th May 1886

. . .

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH HYMNAL. -- The Committee hopes in the course of the autumn to publish the new collection of Hymns, Chants and Anthems, with music, which has been for some time in preparation. The whole will be published in one volume; but there will also be editions in two volumes - the first containing hymns only, with and without music; and the second chants, anthems, &c., only with and without music. Amid the multitude of hymn-books and hymnals in the market, it has been difficult to frame an appropriate and distinctive title. The following, however, has been finally agreed upon as the leading title - "Congregational Church Hymnal."

It will be published in editions of different size and cost, so as to meet the requirements of all, and it is hoped and believed that it will meet a want which has been long felt in the churches.

CYB 1888 p.10 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 9th May 1887

. . .

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH HYMNAL. -- The Committee hoped, at the date of the last Report, that the new Hymnal would, in all its editions, be in the hands of members of the Union before the close of last year. In this, as the event has proved, they took too sanguine a view of the progress it was possible to make. The determination of the editor to secure, in the musical department, work of the very highest order, both as to general quality and as to special fitness for Congregational worship; the enormous correspondence in dealing with between two and three hundred separate copyright interests, and the obstinate nature of the difficulties which sprang up in connection with some of these interests, have involved labour and delays beyond what was anticipated. The correspondence received at the office and by the editor reveals a state of expectation in regard to the book which borders on impatience. The Committee are sorry for the inconvenience to which some congregations which have been waiting for the book have been put; but they believe it will be found that no book, with any pretension to the same quantity and style of matter, has been produced in so short a time. The Committee are able to report that the first part, that which consists of hymns, with and without music, is now ready, and that, in a few days, copies of the several editions of this part may be had from the publishers, according to a price list which will be widely circulated. The second part, consisting of chants and anthems, has been unexpectedly delayed. The Committee were reluctant to publish the first part without the second, as both parts will be bound in one volume for the convenience of those who wish to have the book in that form; but the knowledge of the fact that some congregations which do not use chants or anthems, and others which are already supplied with chant and anthem books, which they intend to retain, are anxiously waiting for the Hymnal, led them to depart from their original intention. he edition with chants and anthems they hope to be able to announce in a few weeks.

. . .

ACCOUNTS. -- . . . There has been on the one hand a considerable decrease in profits on the sale of the Congregational Hymn-book, owing to the expectation that the Congregational Church Hymnal would soon be published; and on the other hand a considerable special outlay in connection with the production of the Hymnal. . . .

CYB 1889 p.6 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 7th May 1888

. . .

PUBLICATIONS. -- The Congregational Church Hymnal, though specimens of some of its editions were ready for inspection at the date of the last Annual Meeting, was not ready for sale in all its editions until the date of the Autumnal Meetings. The demand for the book has been very satisfactory, the sale down to date being about 80,000 copies; a larger number has been reported, but this rested on a miscalculation. The Committee find that in some quarters an impression exists that there is an intention at an early date to withdraw the Congregational Hymn-book, with Supplement, from sale. There is no such intention at present. As long as any considerable number of the churches continue to use that book the Committee feel bound to supply it, though they may from time to time withdraw editions which have ceased to have a remunerative sale.

CYB 1890 p.5 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 6th May 1889

. . .

PUBLISHING DEPARTMENT. -- . . . There has also been published in the course of the year another edition of the "Congregational Church Hymnal," with music. Enquiries were constantly being made for a size between the crown 8vo and the royal 8vo. This has now been supplied by a medium 8vo. The sale of all publications has been satisfactory - that of the Hymnal down to date being about 200,000 copies.

Among publications contemplated is a "Mission Hymnal," with and without music. Our brethren who are specially engaged in conducting missions, and pastors who hold occasional missions in their own churches or neighbourhoods, have found the want of such a book, and have appealed to the Committee to supply it.. This they propose to do by the publication of a small book containing about 300 hymns, one of the editions of which they hope to be able to sell for a penny. They have asked the Rev. G.S.Barrett, the editor of the Hymnal, to undertake this work assisted by a Committee consisting of the following members: the Revs. W.A.Blake, R.F.Horton, E.T.Egg, Dr. Mackennal, C.A.Berry, T.G.Crippen, R.Balgarnie, Chas. New, T.F.T.Hallowes, Eric Lawrence, I. Morley Wright, W.Tidd Matson. It is also proposed to publish an enlarged edition, with and without music, of the Congregational Hymnal or Book of Praise for Young People, but this will be deferred until the Mission Hymnal has been got out of hand.

CYB 1891 p.9 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 12th May 1890

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- The Publication Department, as the balance-sheet which will be submitted to you shows, is amply justifying its establishment. The sales of the "Congregational Church Hymnal" for the year 1889 were 72,242 copies, making the total number issued thus far, in round numbers, a quarter of a million copies. The sale of the "Congregational Hymn-book" has, as a matter of course, considerably diminished, yet 46,486 copies were sold during the year. The sale of the "Book of Praise" amounted to 10,334 copies. . . . The "Congregational Mission Hymnal," edited as to the hymns by the Rev. G.S.Barrett, and as to the music by Mr. Joseph Barn[a]by, is now published in several editions. The Committee is hopeful that it will supply a desideratum which has been long felt. . . .

CYB 1892 p.8 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 11th May 1891

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- The Committee is glad to report the continued success of the Publication Department. The returns for the past year are hardly so large as in the previous year, but a falling off was only to be expected, as the Church Hymnal had been adopted by so many churches, and thus first orders have not been so numerous. The Mission Hymnal has been received with general satisfaction, and, up to the end of 1890, 28,532 copies were sold. The sale of the Church Hymnal for the year amounted to 68,468 copies, and for the old hymn book to 44,703. . . .

CYB 1893 p.7 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 9th May 1892

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- The Committee has again to report the success of the Publication Department. . . . No less than 71,000 copies were sold last year of the Congregational Church Hymnal, bringing the total sales to date up to 400,000. Of the Mission Hymnal over 37,000 copies were sold. The Sunday School Hymnal, published in August last, has been a marked success, upwards of 40,000 having been already disposed of. . . . The Congregational Hymn Book and Supplement is still used by a large number of churches, as may be gathered from the fact that nearly 40,000 copies were sold last year. . . .

REV. G.S.BARRETT. -- The Publication of the Congregational Sunday School Hymnal, and thus the completion of the service which, at the request of your Committee, Mr. Barrett undertook, seemed to afford a fitting opportunity to express appreciation of the way in which that service was rendered. The following resolution was adopted :--

The completion of the series of Hymnals for the use of the Churches, Sunday-schools and Mission services present to the Committee the oppotunity, which it gladly embraces, of placing on record its sense of the great value of the work thus performed by Rev. G.S.Barrett, B.A., the responsible editor of the whole series. Mr Barrett brought to the office a rare acquaintance with the subject, a keen and cultivated taste, and above all a deep devoional sympathy with all that is best in English Hymnology, which have enabled him to confer on the Union and the Churches a signal and lasting benefit. Most pleasing reports continually reach the Committee from those churches which have adopted the Hymnal; they speak of the assistance it has been and is to them, not only in the improvement of their musical service, but in the far higher respect of the deepening of their spiritual life; and the Committee congratulates Mr. Barrett on the filfilment of his arduous labours and the anticipation of the permanence of their admirable results. It further offers its hearty thanks to the several members of the Consultative Committees, whose co-operation with the editor conduced to the success of the enterprise.

CYB 1894 p.10 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 8th May 1893

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- The general business of the Publication Department has been well maintained. About 69,000 copies of the Hymnal have been sold, bringing up the total sales to half a million. The demand for 35,000 copies of the Congregational Hymn Book shows that the older work still retains an important place in our musical services. The disposal of 45,000 copies of the Sunday School Hymnal and of 32,000 of the Mission Hymnal is also satisfactory. . . .

CYB 1895 p.56 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 7th May 1894

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- . . . The sales of the Hymnal were 68,469, about the same as last year; but the demand for the Hymn Book has fallen from 35,000 to 30,000. The call for Sunday-school Hymnals was 36,422, and for Mission Hymnals 19,742. All things considered these sales are satisfactory, though it is a matter for regret that the excellency of the Mission Hymnal is not obtaining more rapid recognition. . . .

CYB 1896 p.56 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 6th May 1895

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- . . . The sales of the Hymnal were 68,718, as against 68,469 last year. The demand for the Hymn-book has again fallen, though not at the same rapid rate as in 1893, and amounted only to 29,175. The call for Sunday-school Hymnals was 37,875, and for Mission Hymnals 16,024. . . . the demand for Hymn-sheets for special services rose to 107,934. . . .

CYB 1897 p.58 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 11th May 1896

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- . . . The Church Hymnal has now been so generally adopted that a large number of those "first orders" which have been so profitable can no longer be expected. Moreover, the adoption of the Hymnal implies the discarding of the older Hymn-book. These considerations being kept in mind, an encouraging quantity of business has been done. The sales of the Hymnal were 66,819 copies, about 2,600 less than the year before. The demand for the Hymn-book fell to 24,124, a decrease of 5,000. There was an improved sale of the Sunday-school Hymnal amounting to 38,523 copies; and an increase of 1,500 in the call for Mission Hymnals, which rose to 17,571. . . . Of the hymn-sheets, a valuable aid to Special Services, 113,657 were cleared, . . .

CYB 1898 p.64 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 10th May 1897

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- . . . Of the Hymnal 77,185 copies were sold, an increase in 1896 of more than 10,000 above the previous year, about one hundred additional churches having adopted this book. Of the older Hymn-Book 24,038 copies were in demand, an evidence that this work is not yet out of date. Of the Sunday School Hymnal tghe sale was 41,513, an advance of 3,000 copies on the previous year, and a further token of the growing popularity of the book. The sale of the Mission Hymnal is not equally encouraging. Only 9,593 copies have been sold. Yet apart from its main purpose as a high-class Mission-book, it is valuable as a suitable volume for Week-night Services, for Christian Endeavour Societies, for Pleasant Sunday Afternoon Gatherings, and for ordinary Bible-classes. . . . The Hymn-Sheets continue to render useful service; the call for the last-named again exceeded 100,000 copies.

CYB 1899 p.58 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 9th May 1898

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- . . . The sales of the Congregational Hymnal were 84,560, an increase on the previous year of 7,500 copies. Those of the Sunday School Hymnal rose to 45,451, an increase of 4,000. Those of the Mission Hymnal, a work whose popularity is now growing, amounted to 10,113, a small increase. The older Hymn Book continues to show diminished sales, although the rate of decrease is not so considerable as in recent years. . . . The Hymnal Sheets are still found useful; the sales being larger than ever.

CYB 1900 p.57 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 8th May 1899

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- . . . The transactions of 1898 show a slight falling off, principally in the sales of Church Hymnals, the number being 79,664, five thousand less than in 1897, though above the average for the last ten years. 45,779 copies of the Sunday School Hymnal, and 9,599 Mission Hymnals were disposed of, the former slightly above and the latter rather under the numbers of the previous year. The older Hymn Book was called for to the extent of 21,519 copies. . . . the demand for Hymn Sheets was undiminished.

CYB 1901 p.62 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 7th May 1900

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- Decrease marked the sales of our various hymnals and hymn books during the past year partly accounted for by the alteration of date at which the year's sales ceased, November 30th, instead of the middle of December as heretofore. The sales of Church Hymnal numbered 73,573 - about 6,000 less than in 1898; while 42,756 Sunday School Hymnal, 8,251 Mission Hymnal, and 20,068 of the older Congregational Hymn Book, show slight reductions on the numbers for the previous year. . . . Hymn Sheets were in good demand. . . . The aggregate sales of the three Hymnals, Church, Sunday School, and Mission, now reach 1,717,412 volumes, and the number of Churches newly adopting the books continues to increase.

CYB 1902 p.58 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 22nd April 1901

. . .

PUBLICATION DEPARTMENT. -- . . . The sales of the Congregational Church Hymnal were 77,091, an increase of 3,500. The demand for the Sunday School Hymnal rose to the high-water mark of 46,000. On the other hand the sales of the Mission Hymnal were only 7,797, a decrease which recent additions to the work ought soon to amend. The total sales of these three Hymnals since their first issue now amount to very nearly two million copies, viz., Church Hymnal, 1,100,000; Sunday School Hymnal, 600,000; and Mission Hymnal, 200,000. The old Hymn Book, still called the New Congregational, sold only to the extent of 17,791 copies, the lowest sale on record, a hint of the coming day when it will no longer be profitable to keep it in stock. The total sales of these various Hymnals reached the large figure of 148,683.

CYB 1903 p.57 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 12th May 1902

. . .

THE STANDING SUB-COMMITTEES

. . .

The business of the Publication Department shows a steady and encouraging growth. The calls for the Congregational Church Hymnal were the largest on record, 87,728 as against 77,091 copies in 1900, itself an increase of 3,500 over 1899. The demand for the Sunday School Hymnal exceeded the previous "high-water mark" of 46,000 by an additional 4,000. The sales of the Mission Hymnal were 8,894, comparing favourably with 7,797 in 1890. On the other hand, the sales of the old hymn-book, still called the New Congregational, fell to 14,831, about 3,000 less than the previous lowest sale. The total number of hymnals disposed of during the year was 161,835, an increase of 13,000 on the sales of 1900. . . .

CYB 1904 p.51 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 11th May 1903

. . .

STANDING SUB-COMMITTEES.

Finance and Publication Department. . . . The total sales of the Church Hymnal were 85,918, a high figure, only short of the highest. The sales of the Sunday School Hymnal reached a total of 46,628 - much above the average. The Mission Hymnal, in spite of recent additions to its contents, does not command the attention its merits deserve, the demand being only 7,686. The old Congregational Hymn Book sold to the extent of 13,692 copies - a decreasing output sure to eventuate in ultimate withdrawal of the work. The total sales of hymnals and hymn books reached 153,924.

CYB 1905 p.49 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 9th May 1904

. . .

(VI.) During 1903 trade in the Publication Department was well maintained and nearly reached the very high record of previous years. There was a falling off in the sales of the Church Hymnal - the aggregate being nearly 80,000 copies, or some 6,000 copies less than 1902. Of the Sunday School Hymnal, however, 53,000 copies were sold. The Mission Hymnal had a sale of 5,000 copies. The old Congregational Hymn Book moved another step towards the point where the question of withdrawing it will have to be faced. The sales were 12,275. The total sales of hymn books were 150,425, and 113,000 sheets of selected hymns were sold.

CYB 1906 p.106 Committee Report to Annual Assembly, 8h May 1905

. . .

(11) Publication Department.

. . . Sales of the Church Hymnal have much exceeded the average number, the total having been 84,281. In the case of the Sunday School Hymnal, the number of sales has passed all earlier records and reached the gratifying aggregate of 53,704 copies, and the issue of a new edition in larger type has proved a welcome departure, promising increased favour and usefulness for this popular book. Of the Mission Hymnal 7,645 copies have been sold. While the Department continues to supply the old Hymn Book so long known under the name of "The New Congregational Hymn Book and Supplement", the demand gradually but surely declines, and is now met by an annual sale of less than 10,000 copies. Some of the larger type editions are nearly exhausted and cannot profitably be reprinted, a fact which deserves the careful attention of those churches which have not yet adopted the Hymnal. Of the several series of separate Hymn Sheets 129,512 copies have been sold. . . .

CYB 1907

[ General Annual Report not included in the 1907 Year Book. See separate Council Minutes. (Under the "New Constitution" of 1905, the first meeting of the Council was held in May of that year).

CYB 1908 p.11 Assembly Minutes Thurs. 9th May 1907

(Council Report for 1906 - 1907)

LITERATURE COMMITTEE. --

. . . A new edition of the Hymnal of small size, including chants and anthems, will be on sale at an early date.

CYB 1909 p.10 Assembly Minutes Tue. 12th May 1908

(Council Report for 1907 - 1908)

LITERATURE. -- Your Council, realising that some change either by way of a new Hymnal or a supplement to the present book is becoming increasingly pressing, decided to invite an expression of opinion from the Churches through the County Unions. The information when received will be invaluable in aiding a decision on a question which so vitally affects the worship of the sanctuary. Returns at present point in the direction of a new book.

A new edition of the Congregational Church Hymnal of smaller size, which promises to meet a popular demand, has been issued during the year.

CYB 1910 p.6 Assembly Minutes Thurs. 13th May 1909

(Council Report for 1908 - 1909)

. . .

The chief features of the work done during the year are seen in the decisions of the Council to prepare and issue a new Hymn Book; . . .

LITERATURE COMMITTEE. -- Your Council reports that the majority of the county unions having declared in favour of a change of Hymn Book, it has decided on the compilation of a new book,, and the following have consented to form a Hymnal Editorial Committee: Revs. Dr. P.T. Forsyth, T.G. Crippen, A.R. Henderson, M.A., E.P. Powell, M.A., J.G. Stevenson, H. Elvet Lewis, M.A., B.J . Snell, M.A., Drs. J.D. McClure, H. Coward, and Mr Josiah Booth. . . .

CYB 1911 p.12 Assembly Minutes Thurs. 12th May 1910

(Council Report for 1909 - 1910)

. . .

HYMN-BOOK COMMITTEE. -- This committee, under the chairmanship of Mr. J.D. McClure, LL.D., Mus.D., is meeting frequently, and, consistent with efficiency, is pressing forward its work. The existing hymnal has been carefully revised, a few hymns being reserved for further consideration. A large number of hymns and tunes submitted by correspondents have undergone a first revision. While at present unable to definitely forecast the date of completion of the new book the Council would advise delay until the new book be procurable, on the part of churches making a change of hymn-book. Mr Harry Evans, of Liverpool, has been added to the committee.

CYB 1912 p.13 Assembly Minutes Thurs. 11th May 1911

(Council Report for 1910 - 1911)

. . .

HYMN-BOOK COMMITTEE. -- This Committee is steadily prosecuting its labours; the first draft of the selected hymns is now virtually complete, and is being set up in type. Considerable preliminary progress has also been made with the tunes and chants. Your Council has every reason to hope that the complete book may be ready for publication in 1912.

CYB 1913 p.13 Assembly Minutes Thurs. 9th May 1912

(Council Report for 1911 - 1912)

. . .

HYMNAL COMMITTEE. -- The Committee has held many meetings during the year 1911. Save during what one might term vacation times, they have met once a fortnight. The choice of suitable tunes for the hymns has proved no easy task, and has occupied a great amount of time. The re-pointing of the chants has also been undertaken, and will shortly be completed.

The Committee has been enabled, by the help of the Finance Committee, to secure the services of the Rev. T.G. Crippen as Assistant Secretary, and the help he has already rendered has done much to facilitate the progress of the book. While appointing Mr Josiah Booth Musical Adviser, the Committee, mindful of the often expressed wish of the Council, retains the full power of decision as to all hymns and tunes that may be included in the new book.

Much correspondence yet remains to be done with regard to copyright and other matters, but it is not anticipated that any serious difficulties will arise. Your Committee still hope that the book may be out by the end of the year, or early in 1913.

FINANCE COMITTEE. -- Your Council has again to report a heavy deficit. This recurring fall of income can only be checked on the publication of the New Hymn Book; until then the sales of the Hymnal are almost at a standstill, although the more general business shows some expansion. . . .

CYB 1914 pp.10 Assembly Minutes Thurs. 8th May 1913

(Council Report for 1912 - 1913)

. . . A paragraph in the Report of the Finance Committee points to the Assembly being asked in the near future to consider some better and more adequate method of financing the Union. . . . No one can feel satisfied that a great denomination such as ours should be solely dependent for its income upon the affiliation fees of the Churches and the chance profits of a Hymn Book and the sales of the Publication Department. . . .

HYMNAL COMMITTEE. -- The Hymnal Committee has continued its work since the last report was rendered with unabated effort. Indeed, the meetings have been more frequent than before, and the Committee has been working for the most part in two sections, Musical and Editorial, in order to expedite its labours. Individual members have undertaken much laborious work in preparation for these Committees. Suggestions and communications have been sent in from very many quarters, and these have been carefully considered.

The selection of hymns is practically complete, except in so far as it may be frustrated by reason of copyrights. The adaptation of tunes, necessarily a very laborious matter, is now very far advanced, and will soon be approaching completeness.

The selection of Psalms and the revision of the pointing have been proceeding with much care.

A considerable amount of the detailed work is involved in the question of copyrights and in the various arrangements for printing and publication, and in these matters a good deal remains to be carried out.

The Committee has, of course, been somewhat hampered by the absence of its Chairman, Dr. McClure, since the beginning of this year, but the production of the book will be carried through with all the expedition that is possible. The Committee feels that the matter of efficiency is far more important than the hastening of the publication by a few months.

CYB 1915 p.15 Assembly Minutes Thurs. 14th May 1914

(Council Report for 1913 - 1914)

. . .

HYMNAL COMMITTEE. -- This Committee has been meeting every week for some time past, and not infrequently morning and afternoon sessions have been held on the same day. The Hymn Book is complete, and the hymns have been numbered and set up in pages. The Chants are also complete, and the Anthem section nearly so. The Committee confidently anticipate that the book will be on sale before the Sunner holidays, unless unexpected obstacles should intervene.

CYB 1916 p.18 (Assembly Thurs. 13th May 1915)

(p.6 Assembly minutes)

Council Report: . . . A brief statement was made by Sir J.D.McClure, M.A., LL.D., D.Mus., with reference to the New Congregational Hymnal in course of preparation.

(p.12) . . . Your Council rejoices that the New Hymn Book, in spite of the later unforeseen delays caused by the war, is on the eve of publication. As the long and arduous labours of the Committee, more arduous than any but the initiated know, draw to a close, your Council would express to the members of this Committee, and more particularly to its Chairman, Sir J.D. McClure, its sense of profound indebtedness and acknowledge in the warmest manner the services these brethren have rendered, not only to their own Denomination but to all sections of the Christian Church, that ever find in their sacrament of praise a bond of unity that enables them to realize the oneness of the Church of Christ. Our Hymnal Committee has given of its best to offer to our Churches, a hymnary that, worthy of our Denomination, shall also be a real contribution to the beauty and vitality of our worship. As such we shall welcome it, and pray that in its proven value they will find the reward of their earnest and untiring efforts.

Coincident with the issuing of this new hymnal your Council anticipates some relaxation of the financial pressure which has of late become increasingly a source of anxiety, . . .

(p.18) HYMNAL COMMITTEE. -- This Committee has held very few meetings since September, though a great amount of work has been done by the sub-committees and by individuals in preparing the Hymn Book for the press. The outbreak of the war has caused an unexpected delay in the publishing of the book, and other difficulties, which could not well have been foreseen, have also arisen. But at the present time the musical edition is being printed by Messrs. Novello and Company, and more than half the hymns are already in type. Arrangements have recently been made which it is hoped will have the effect of accelerating the printing of this edition. As soon as the musical edition of the hymns is complete, the printing of the words only can at once be undertaken, and will speedily be completed.

( 1916 p.44) Autumn Assembly, Thurs. 7th October 1915

. . . Mr A.J. Shepheard briefly reported upon the work of the Council. He announced the new hymnal would be published by next Christmas. . . .

CYB 1917 p.18 (Assembly Thurs. 11th May 1916)

(Council Report for 1915-16)

HYMNAL COMMITTEE. -- The Hymnal Committee has had no meetings, as a Committee, for the past year or more, but there have been frequent consultations. The work of seeing the book through the press has been assigned to two Sub-Committees. The scarcity of labour, which has been the direct consequence of the war, has seriously hampered the production of the book. At the present time, however, the bulk of the Words Edition is printed, and only awaits the completion of the Music Edition. With the exception of the last few pages of Anthems, this is now complete; and Messrs. Novello, who are printing this edition, assure us that, as far as they are concerned, the book will be ready for the May Meetings.

[ The CUEW Assembly May 1917 was postponed until October on account of the war. The Council Reports for 1916 were restricted in scope, and not printed in the 1918 Year Book. ]

[ The CUEW Assembly 1918 was held in May but not in the Autumn. Detailed Council Reports for 1917 were not printed in the 1919 Year Book ]

[ CUEW Assembly 1919: Summary Council Report only (incorporating sub-committee reports) in the 1920 Year Book ]

[ CYB 1921 ditto ]

CYB 1922 pp.25-6 Assembly Wed. 11th May 1921

(Council Report for 1920-21)

. . .

WORK AMONG THE YOUNG

. . .

The Book of Worship and of Song is now practically complete as regards actual compilation, and it is hoped to publish it within another year.

[Can't find any earlier report about this project. See CYB 1923 below. The project eventually became School Worship 1926, after much delay and) near-cancellation.]

CYB 1923 p.31 Assembly Minutes Wed. 10th May 1922

(Council Report for 1921-1922)

Work among the Young Committee

. . .

A HYMNARY FOR SCHOOLS AND YOUNG PEOPLE'S SOCIETIES. -- The compilation of a Book of Worship and Song, complementary to the Congregational Hymnary, was towards the close of the war entrusted to a Committee appointed by the Union on the initiative of the Young People's Department. This Book, which will include Primary music and hymns, and have a special section for the use of Young People's Societies, Fellowships and Young People's organisations generally, will be published as soon as the costs of printing and binding allow. The Committee hopes it will be in the hands of our churches in the coming year at the latest, and will prove helpful in all the work fostered by our Department.

CYB 1924 p.9 Assembly Minutes Wed. 9th May 1923

(Council Report for 1922 - 1923)

Work among the Young Committee

. . .

The Hymnaries for Schools and Young People's Societies. -- A Volume of Worship and Song for Sunday Schools and Young People's Societies complementary to the Congregational Hymnary is now practically ready for publication. It is especially hoped that the section prepared for our newly formed Fellowships and for Young People's Societies generally will be found to be of special value, and will fill a niche as yet not fully occupied.

CYB 1925 pp. 8-9 and 16-17 Assembly Minutes Wed. 14th May 1924

(Council Report for 1923 - 1924)

(1925 pp. 8-9) Finance Commission

ECONOMIES

. . .

The other recommendations can best be discussed under the heading of the Young People's Department. Three things especially engaged the attention of your Commission : -

(a) The Publication of "Teachers and Taught"

(b) The position of Mr S.A. Warner

(c) The question of a new Sunday School Hymnary

(a) [ recommended discontinuation ] [ Actually it wasn't discontinued; circulation trebled itself in the following year and it continued in production. ]

(b) [ Sack him. We can't afford him any longer, esp. if "T. & T." is discontinued ]

(c) The third subject connected with the Young People's Department which occupied the attention of your Commission was that of the proposed Sunday School Hymnary. The Young People's Department has for long been engaged on its preparation. The Commission are agreed that such a Hymnary is needed, but in view of the financial condition of the Union they recommend that the Finance Committee should seriously consider the wisdom of proceeding with its publication in view of the heavy financial responsibility that would be so incurred. They further recommend that the Committee charged with the preparation of the Hymn Book should take measures to assure themselves of its suitability to meet the requirements of different types of schools and Young People's Societies.

(1925 pp.16-17) Work among the Young Committee

. . .

The New Hymn Book for Schools. -- The Book of Worship and Song, on which most of the preliminary work has been accomplished, has been temporarily set aside by the Finance Commission, owing to the expense of publication. We hope, however, although the serious delay is causing disappointment to many, that thanks to the generosity of Mr J.C. Meggitt, the work of publication will be pressed forward as quickly as possible.

CYB 1926 pp. 33 - 34 and 62 Assembly Minutes Wed. 13th May 1925

(Council Report for 1924 - 1925)

(1926 p.34) Publication Committee

. . .

The new Sunday School Hymnal, prepared by a special Committee, appointed in 1916, is almost completed for publication, an edition of the words without music being already in type. Mr J.C. Meggitt has generously promised to advance the capital for this publication, and guaranteed the Committee against loss.

. . .

. . . during the year 1924 the sales by the Department amounted to £20,760. The total is £232 less than in the previous year. The falling off, however, is entirely due to a decrease of £866 from sales of Hymnals, etc., which must necessarily decrease now that the new Hymnary has become so generally adopted.

(1926 p.62) Work among the Young Committee

. . .

The Sunday School Hymn-Books. -- It is hoped that the labours of the Hymn-Book Committee, which have continued for six years, will be brought to a successful conclusion by the publication this summer of three books, one for the Primary Department, entitled "Children's Praise," another for Senior Departments and Young People's Societies, and a third entitled "School Worship", for use in all Schools. This will include the Senior Section. It is confidently believed that these books will greatly improve the spirit and method of worship in our Sunday Schools and Young People's Meetings.

CYB 1927 p.39 Assembly Minutes Wed. 9th June 1926

(Council Report for 1925 - 1926)

(1927 p.39) Publication Committee Report ("Independent Press Limited")

The Publication Committee in presenting its report of the year's working to the Council is glad to be able to record that steady progress has been made, and although the total trade is slightly behind the figures for last year the reason for this is largely the gradual falling off in the sales of the Congregational Hymnary which is inevitable under the circumstances. It is to be hoped, however, that the Churches which have not yet adopted the Hymnary will do so at the earliest possible moment. The endeavour to publish an Organ Edition of the Chants and Anthems has not been realised, a sufficient number of Churches not having guaranteed orders for the book, and without at least 500 guaranteed orders it would be impossible to publish the book without serious loss.

. . .

The outstanding publication since the last report is the new Sunday School Hymnal, called "School Worship," prepared by the Special Committee which was appointed in 1916. The preparation of this book has been slightly delayed, and it was not until after the New Year that it was actually published. The Committee believes that it will greatly enrich the worship of Sunday Schools and Young People's Societies, and hopes that it will receive the widest possible circulation. It is a hopeful sign that the Psalms and Hymns Trust has adopted the book for use in Baptist Sunday Schools, and has ordered a substantial edition with a joint imprint.

(p.72) Work amongst the Young Committee

. . .

A NEW HYMN BOOK. The labours of the Hymn Book Committee, which have extended over eight years, saw their reward in the appearance of "School Worship", a Hymn Book for Sunday Schools and Young People's Societies. It is hoped that its publication will greatly assist Superintendents in their effort to improve and develop the devotional aspect of their Sunday School Services. We desire to acknowledge with gratitude the splendid work given to the compilation by the Chairman and the other members of the Hymn Book Committee.

CYB 1928 p.40 Assembly Minutes Wed. 11th May 1927

(Council Report for 1926 - 1927)

(p.40) Independent Press Limited

Sales. . . .

The sales of our editions of hymn books and service books in 1926 show an increase of £1,346. The newly published "School Worship" is winning marked popularity. Over 27,000 copies have been sold, in addition to editions of 29,000, with special title page, taken by the "Psalms and Hymns Trust" of the Baptist Churches.

CYB 1929

CYB 1930

CYB 1931

CYB 1932

CYB 1933

CYB 1934

CYB 1935

CYB 1936 p.206 Assembly Minutes Wed. 15th May 1935

(Council Report for 1934 - 1935)

(Independent Press Ltd report for 1934)

Hymnals and Hymnaries. -- During the year there were 12 adoptions of the Congregational Hymnary compared with 23 in the previous year. Total sales have been £2,725 14s. 4d., a smaller turnover than for 1933, a fact perhaps not to be wondered at seeing that the majority of churches now have the Hymnary in use.

"School Worship." -- It is gratifying to be able again to report that more copies of School Worship were sold in 1934 than in any year since its issue in 1926. Probably no Sunday School hymn-book has received - or deserved - such general approval as this book has gained, and it is good to note that School Worship has a large following outside our own denomination. The new waterproof, extra strong binding has been well taken up, more than 2000 copies in this stylehaving been bought during the year.

CYB 1937 p.250 Assembly Minutes Wed. 15th May 1935

(Council Report for 1935 - 1936)

(Independent Press Ltd report for 1935)

Congregational Church Hymnal. -- This book, popularly known as "Barrett's Hymnal", has had a life of almost fifty years. Many churches still have it in use, but sales of recent years have been so small that it has been found impossible to issue new printings of it. Only very small quantities of any edition remain, and it is suggested that churches give consideration to the current Hymnary of which ample stocks are available.

School Worship. -- It is gratifying to be able again to report that more copies of School Worship were sold in 1935 than in any year since its issue in 1926. Sunday Schools are asked also to consider the many excellent series of Anniversary musifc selected from School Worship. Specimens of the ten sets will be sent on approval.

CYB 1938 p.223 Assembly Minutes Wed. 15th May 1937

(Council Report for 1936 - 1937)

(Independent Press Ltd report for 1936)

Issues of the Year. During the year the Press have issued 20 books and pamphlets, and in addition The Popular Hymnal, a collection of 120 evangelical hymns for Missions, Women's Meetings, etc. This little book, issued at 4d. and 6d., is gradually making its way, and is worthy of consideration for special services where hymns of a well-known kind are essential. . . .

. . .

"Barrett's Hymnal". -- This old Congregational Church Hymnal, after a life of just fifty years, has ceased to be, no copies of any edition now remaining. Sales for years have been getting smaller as more and more churches have adopted the Hymnary. The Directors realize that to replace the worn-out stock of "Barrett" is a formidable undertaking. To help meet this, the Manager has been authorized to extend the period of settlement in such cases, so that churches may pay the account for hymn-book supplies over a period of six, or even nine, months, as will suit the convenience of church ordering.

. . .

School Worship. -- Sales of this excellent Sunday school hymn-book have only been a few hundred copies less than in the first year of issue - in itself a record year for sales - which is striking evidence of the popularity of the book ten years after publication. Many schools outside our connexion use School Worship, and we believe it still offers the best and most complete collection of hymns and responsive services available. An application to the Manager of Independent Press from any school wishing to consider the adoption of School Worship will bring a specimen copy free.

For extracts from the C.U.E.W. Annual Year Books relating to Congregational Praise (i.e. 1939 to 1953), click here > >

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(The Rejoice & Sing Enchiridion:edited by David Goodall; last amended 27/1/04)