The hymnals are more than just songs: they hold not only our music, but they also hold our UU history and values. Singing the hymns together connects our hearts, even when we believe different things. If you arrive early for service, take some time exploring the hymnals, then point them out to guests and visitors who arrive early.
The Big Gray Book: Singing the Living Tradition
This hymnal was published in 1993. It is the main hymnal used in most UU churches. It has 415 songs and many readings. This hymnal changed UU music by adding more diverse songs from around the world. It was one of the first major hymnals to change old language to be gender-neutral.
The Little Teal Book: Singing the Journey
This hymnal was published in 2005. It is a supplement, which means it adds to the big gray book. It holds 75 newer songs. This hymnal has more contemporary, upbeat, and folk-style music. It helps congregations sing about modern social justice issues.
These UU hymnals include music from many traditions: Jewish and Christian heritage, Humanist teachings (focusing on reason and science), Earth-centered traditions (Pagan and Indigenous songs), and Social Justice (many songs focus on peace, civil rights, and saving the planet).
In addition to the songs, the hymnal contains readings and responsive services: hundreds of numbered prose and poetry selections drawn from global religious, philosophical, and literary sources. Brief credits and background notes detail the origins of both the hymn texts and the musical tunes, acknowledging our diverse roots (folk, spirituals, and global traditions). There is a comprehensive cross-reference including an Index of First Lines, Index of Titles, Index of Authors, Composers, and Sources, and a Meter Index. Notes indicate specific themes, responsive reading formats, or historical adaptations made by modern compilers to match UU values.
Questions about welcoming, the HoMe Team, or membership?
Contact Barbara Frazell, memprof@liveoakuu.org
