Page:The Army and Navy Hymnal.djvu/8

 THE ARMY AND NAVY HYMNAL

COMPILED BY THE CHAPLAINS OF THE ARMY AND NAVY

For a long time it has been felt that for the use of the Army and Navy, a hymnal should be published that would meet the demands of every occasion and of all the Chaplains. From time to time civilian organizations have attempted this work, and have produced books of merit. The fact remains, however, that the Chaplains should know, and do know, more about what the men want and what is appropriate for divine service as conducted in the Army and Navy, than those who have seen the situation only from the outside.

With a view to getting what we want in this book, representatives of the Chaplain Corps of the Army and Navy selected a number of popular hymns, which were submitted to each Chaplain of both branches of the service, with the request that he suggest eliminations or material to be added; also that suggestions be made as to Orders of Service, Selections for responsive reading, et cetera.

Consequently this book goes forth as the result of enthusiastic co-operative effort of the Chaplains of both services, and it is confidently believed that for our particular need it holds many distinct advantages over any other collection of sacred music extant. It is our sincere wish that it may accomplish the full measure of usefulness contemplated by all concerned in its compilation,— to the glory of God and the upbuilding of patriotic citizenship.