Virginia Mennonite influenced 1969 hymnal

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I was grateful for Harold D. Lehman’s response to “Using Hymn Number ‘606’ ” (May 20). Joseph Funk’s Genuine Church Music, 1832, named Harmonia Sacra in later editions, played an important role in the creation of The Mennonite Hymnal in 1969—not only for “Dedication Anthem” at number 606 but also for its several dozen American folk tunes, such as Foundation, Zion’s Pilgrim and Amazing Grace. The Joint Hymnal Committee for that book attended the Harmonia Sacra Singing at Weavers Mennonite Church near Harrisonburg, Va., on New Year’s Day of 1964. The experience easily convinced us to include a number of those musical treasures in the new book.

In addition, I acknowledge my indebtedness to generations of Shenandoah Valley Mennonites for keeping alive the traditions of singing in parts with shape notes—a gift that came to the wider church in North America long before the rather sudden popularity of “606” in Turner, Ore., in 1969.

Editor’s note: Oyer tells us that the correct word is “shape” notes and not “shaped” notes.

Associated Issue: Poverty in the suburbs - May 20, 2008

Associated Article: 606: When, why and how do Mennonites use the anthem?

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