Large Print Hymnals

 The Presbyterian Publishing Corporation (PPC) surveyed all PC(USA) congregations in 2011 about various issues related to the production of the hymnal. One of the questions asked was about a preferred format for the large print edition. 62% of all respondents said they wanted an edition with both words and music; 26% wanted a words-only edition. This overwhelming response led to the production of the large print edition in its current format. The weight of binding such a book would have been impractical and unwieldy for individuals to hold in worship. Although it was accurately advertised on order forms, some people have been surprised to see the format of the large print edition.

Now that the large print edition is in hand, how shall congregations enable members to use it? For the binding, simply place it in a large 3-ring binder. Invite a crafty member to create a special binder cover. Congregations with multiple copies of the edition may remove individual pages for use on Sunday. (Be sure to have the pages returned after worship!) With appropriate copyright permission, make copies of each hymn/song in worship, then keep the originals in their binder. Office volunteers and ushers can accomplish these things in short order. This is a small way to include and care for members with sight impairment.

Please share your congregation's ideas for creative use of the large print edition!

 The above quote comes from the Presbyterian Hymnal Project Blog with suggestions on how we might use this wonderful resource of Large Print Hymns.  Although the pages above don't look that much larger, the ease of reading comes also from the thickness of the paper which resulted in a very thick and heavy hymnal.  Remember these will be dedicated at St. Mark Presbyterian November 9 and 10 with an introduction to the hymns featuring a sing-a-long on November 16 and 17.