The new Presbyterian hymnal, to be published in the fall of 2013, has a title.

“Glory to God: the Presbyterian Hymnal” will be the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s first new hymnal since 1990. The Presbyterian Committee on Congregational Song, formed in 2008, will submit a final list of hymns to the 220th General Assembly in 2012.

The committee distributed surveys to Presbyterians, hymnal advocates and staff to gather feedback and ideas about a title, said the Rev. Meg Flannagan, hymnal advocacy and relations coordinator.

“We wanted a title that would be inclusive and celebratory,” she said. “The hymnal is about God and, subsequently, about our response to God.”

The hymnal will be printed in two editions — one for Presbyterian congregations and one for ecumenical use. One edition will have a red cover and one will have purple, but it hasn’t been determined which edition will have which color. Color swatches are available here.

 The ecumenical hymnal can be used by other denominations or in Presbyterian congregations linked with other denominations.

 “Our hymns are not just Presbyterian songs,” Flannagan said.

 Pre-orders for the new hymnal will begin July 1, 2012. The following prices are in effect:

  • $15.00 for orders and pre-payment by June 30, 2013
  • $17.50 for orders by June 30, 2013, with payment due upon publication
  • $20.00 for post-publication orders and payment