The Purposes and Attitudes Which Helped Form The Lutheran Hymnal

Abstract

Paul Zager’s 1981 paper explores the historical context, motivations, and theological attitudes behind the creation of The Lutheran Hymnal (TLH), published in 1941. He highlights the need for a new hymnal due to liturgical poverty, poor translations, lack of uniformity, and inadequate worship resources in earlier hymnals. The Synodical Conference responded with a collaborative effort involving multiple Lutheran synods, aiming to preserve doctrinal purity while enriching worship. Zager details the committee’s careful work, openness to criticism, and commitment to confessional unity. He also examines the role of Pastor Arthur Katt, whose extensive critiques influenced the final product. The paper concludes that TLH succeeded in improving worship materials through deliberate, inclusive, and doctrinally sound processes. An epilogue compares TLH’s development with later hymnals like Lutheran Book of Worship and Lutheran Worship, noting differences in theological intent and editorial rigor.

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