Gospel Hymns and Lutheran Worship

Abstract

Professor Eggert examines the history and use of Gospel Hymns especially in light of the development of the Christian Worship hymnal. He comes to this conclusion: “Gospel Hymns do not fit very well in the liturgical service which we have. They are oblivious to the church year and tend to be a kind of interruption in the flow of the service (as much of our choral music also is). On the other hand, the chorales for the most part do not whistle very well and "Wake, Awake" does not fill the bill around the campfire. A judicious selection of Gospel Hymns can perhaps serve these needs without embarrassment and without the risk of tempting today's passive listeners and those who are looking for some sort of entertainment from the music in the service to feel they have found it in the Gospel Hymn.”