Why the Missing Hymns Matter in Modern Worship

Music has always been a significant part of church services, serving not only as a form of worship but also as a bridge connecting past and present generations. However, modern church music has evolved, and as a result, we find ourselves missing the old hymns that are almost forgotten. Despite this, these traditional hymns play a crucial role in our spiritual and cultural heritage.

The Evolution of Church Music in Germany

Church music in Germany, like in many parts of the world, has seen a shift towards more contemporary styles. Many churches here in Germany do not opt for modern "worship services" but instead try to strike a balance between the old and the new. However, this often leads to confusion and a lack of coherence in the music and service style.

Modern Worship Music in Germany

Modern church songs in Germany can generally be categorized into three types:

Jazz-Inspired Music

One style gaining popularity in churches is jazz-inspired music. While this may sound exciting, it often results in songs that are challenging for congregants to sing. The complexity and unfamiliarity of jazz music make it difficult for everyone to participate fully.

Schlager-Inspired Music

Schlager, a type of accessible and popular music, is perhaps the most criticized. Schlager music typically features repetitive rhythms, catchy melodies, and lyrics that often appear deep but are actually filled with buzzwords and self-therapy jargon. This music, while enjoyable for some, often misses the theological depth that is central to church services.

Sunday School Songs

Another common type of modern church music is Sunday school songs in both German and English. These songs often include simple, repetitive melodies and lyrics like "He's got the whole world in his hands." While these songs may provide a comfortable backdrop for children, they may lack the emotional and spiritual depth sought by more mature worshippers.

A Case for the Old Hymns

On the other hand, old hymns hold a special place in religious traditions. These hymns, dating back to 1524 and even older than the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, carry a rich history and deep spiritual meaning. However, their language is often older and more complex, making them difficult for many to understand.

While translating these hymns into modern German is possible, the goal should be to preserve the essence of these songs. The original intentions were to make hymns accessible and intelligible to everyone. By using 19th-century hymns with minor adjustments, we can connect with our spiritual predecessors and maintain a sense of continuity in our faith.

The Benefits of Maintaining Hymns

Connection to Past Generations: Old hymns help us connect with those who sang them before us. They provide a window into the lives and faith of our ancestors. Value of Tradition: Constantly changing traditions can lead to a loss of identity. By preserving old hymns, we maintain a sense of home and comfort in our churches. Replacing Contemporary Music: Modern music, while appealing to some, does not always convey the intended message. Authentic spiritual connection often requires more than just modern sounds.

Modern Appeal and Age-old Traditions

Interestingly, even very old music can attract millions of people today. The popularity of Gregorian chant in the entertainment industry and the use of ancient text and music styles in various cultural settings demonstrate the timeless appeal of traditional music.

My passion for preserving these old hymns led me to start a YouTube channel. I recently recorded a few old church songs in our ancient village church and published the first video. 'From depths of woe I cry to thee' (Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir) based on Psalm 139 (De profundis clamavi ad te domine) is the latest addition to my channel. While I am not a professional singer, I hope to inspire others to appreciate the beauty and depth of these hymns.

I made the video into a little music video, incorporating footage from the church and the war memorial in our village. This project is not just a homage to the past; it is a reminder of the enduring power of traditional music in our daily lives.

Conclusion: The debate about modern versus traditional church music is ongoing. However, the importance of keeping the old hymns alive cannot be overstated. These songs bridge generations, maintain our spiritual heritage, and provide a sense of comfort and home in our churches.