Church Hymnal (Coil Bound Large Print) "Red Back Hymnal" (Large Print - Shape Note Format) by Pathway Music

America’s Best Loved Hymnal First published in Cleveland, Tennessee, in 1951, the Church Hymnal—affectionately known as the Red Back Hymnal—quickly became a staple in churches across the nation. With more than six million copies sold and beloved for its shape-note tradition, this hymnal celebrates 75 years of congregational singing, cherished memories, and timeless gospel songs. Rooted in the Shape-Note Tradition The hymnal’s influence traces back to the singing schools of the 18th and 19th centuries, where instructors traveled from town to town teaching shape-note music. This system enabled worshippers to sight-read and join in four-part harmony, making congregational singing accessible to all. Out of this fertile ground grew the gospel songs and convention traditions that deeply shaped southern worship—and found their way into the Church Hymnal. Still Singing After 75 Years From revival tents to Sunday evening singings, from family pianos to choir lofts, the Red Back Hymnal continues to inspire joyful voices across generations. [divider width="medium"] Read more