Musician playing piano for congregational worship

MUSIC

Biblically Rich Lyrics

Above all, the words we sing should be faithful and true. Worship isn’t only about the emotional aspect. It includes that, but also much more. The songs we sing shape us. They plant deep, biblical truths in our hearts. Our songs magnify Jesus and connect Him to both the joys and struggles of the Christian life. That’s why we sing a rich variety of Psalms, along with faithful hymns from the past and present.

Congregational Singing

Worship isn’t the time for our skilled musicians to shine while the rest of us passively enjoy their gifts. It’s the opportunity for the gathered people of God to lift their voices together. We try to keep the emphasis on the collective voice of the congregation, not performers or instruments, because this is the most universal and historically rooted way the church has worshiped. More importantly, it mirrors the heavenly worship described in Scripture (Revelation 7:9-10).

Rooted in History

Our music connects us to the larger story of God’s people across time. By singing words and melodies from many centuries, we share in the faith of believers who’ve gone before us. This broadens our musical and theological horizons and deepens our sense of continuity with the church throughout the ages.

SPECIAL MUSIC

God has given musical gifts to many in the church that they might build up the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). At IURC, special music, whether through seasonal choirs or instrumental interludes, serves as a beautiful complement to our congregational singing. These moments allow gifted musicians to bless us by drawing our hearts toward worship, reflection, and the riches of the gospel.

TRINITY PSALTER HYMNAL

This hymnal, published in 2018, was a joint effort by the United Reformed Churches of North America (URCNA) and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC). It combines many of the best musical selections of our two traditions.

The official Trinity Psalter Hymnal app is available for both iOS and Android if you’re interested in accessing it on your mobile device.

You can also view a fully indexed version online or visit the official website to learn more.