The challenge: write a new hymn, set to a tune you already know. While this project is required for a class I'm currently in, I'm fairly excited about it. I own a copy of the United Methodist Hymnal, which was given to me for graduation several years ago, and I have been known to add in a verse of my own here and there, or make notes on why I really like this particular verse and not that one. (On a related side note: does anyone ever sing the second verse of How Great Thou Art? It's my favorite). But for each of these things that I have done, there is already a framework set out; I'm merely adding to an already beautifully-themed piece.
For this project, we are expected to write a hymn that fits a tune we already know, but about a theme that we don't normally sing about in church. As a writer, I find it difficult to write about things that I don't have experience with, and unfortunately, a lot of the themes suggested I just cannot talk about.
Here's to trying. Our professor suggested it might be a nice devotional for Lent, trying to write a new verse or hymn every week. I might have a go at it. Alas, to combat writer's block.
