The editorial committee, led by Dr. John L. Bell (of the Iona Community) and Rev. Dr. David J. McCarthy, included scholars from Trinity College Dublin and Union Theological College. Their work shows in the explanatory preface, the index of scriptural allusions, and the thematic index (over 200 headings, from “Adoption” to “Zeal”).
The official hymnal used by the Presbyterian Church in Ireland is the Irish Presbyterian Hymn Book irish presbyterian hymn book pdf
: Various "Presbyterian Hymnal" apps exist on the Apple App Store and other platforms, though users should verify if they contain the specific 2004 Irish edition or a broader Presbyterian collection. Physical Editions The editorial committee, led by Dr
| Feature | Church Hymnary 3rd Ed. (1973) | Irish Presbyterian Hymn Book (2004) | |---------|-------------------------------|--------------------------------------| | Total hymns | 650 | 1,100+ | | Metrical psalms | 70 | 130 | | Global songs | Few | 40+ | | Scripture index | No | Yes | | Lectionary alignment | Weak | Strong | | Binding quality | Fair | Good (but thin paper) | Their work shows in the explanatory preface, the
While highly popular, the book has faced theological criticism from more conservative quarters, such as the Free Presbyterian Church, which has critiqued the inclusion of "uninspired" hymns over exclusive psalmody and the use of certain contemporary authors.