Why church services are no longer by the book
SIR – You report (September 10) that the hymn book is in decline across churches in Britain.
This has been the case for 20 years. The limited selection of songs offered by a hymn book has been replaced by more flexible options.
As well as showing the words for songs of worship, a screen and projector can be used for presentations, videos and other teaching guides in services.
The challenges of sensitively installing such equipment in listed churches can be overcome by the use of folding brackets for the screens. Such installations are generally less intrusive than, for example, 19th-century organs. James Horn
Warwick SIR – Some elderly residents in a local home have been pleased to receive hymn books that are no longer used.
The hymns bring back special memories, give words of encouragement and thoughts that can be turned into prayers. Pauline Barnett
Bristol
SIR – Your leading article (September 10) suggests the hymn book is as precious as a paper copy of the Bible.
Au contraire: I’ve see many a churchgoer reach for an iPad, iPhone or other electronic device to follow the preacher’s lesson on a Bible app. Dale Fletcher
Gosport, Hampshire