New French-language hymnal creating buzz worldwide

WINNIPEG – During its meeting October 4, LCC’s Committee on Worship and Music reviewed proofs of the new 864-page French-language hymnal which is spreading excitement in Lutheran Francophone communities worldwide.

Liturgies et cantiques luthériens includes 434 hymns, three settings of the Divine Service, matins, vespers, and compline, Holy Baptism, marriage, and funeral services.
Slightly more than half the hymns have parallels with the Lutheran Service Book.

“Never before has such a complete service book and hymnal been available in French for members of any church body, Roman Catholic or Protestant,” Saar told the committee.
The most-recent French-language hymnal was published in 1975. Existing copies are well-worn and new copies are no longer available.

The committee reviewed LCC’s website, especially sections dealing with worship and music and decided to update links and information.
Members also drafted a statement on the H1N1 virus and worship practices for LCC’s Council of Presidents (COP) to review before sending it to congregations.

The October 4 meeting was the committee’s first face-to-face meeting in recent years. To reduce costs it has met through conference calls and over the Internet.

The committee plans to meet via Skype and msn Messenger.
The committee includes, Allison Wonnick, chair, Rev. David Saar and Rev. Jan Pastucha. Rev. Robert Bugbee, president, serves in an advisory capacity.

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