INTRODUCTION TO
GLOBAL SONGS
by Joyce D. Sohl
A Christian song begins in the heart of the believer and becomes a global song when other believers make it their own. Global songs
 

• witness to what God has done and is doing in the world
• help to build a strong worldwide community
• affirm the unity and inclusiveness of the faith
• help us to see Christ in everyone
A global song is a gift given in love. A global song is about sharing the music of the people with the larger Christian community. A global song allows one to share joys and sorrows, pray for each other, and work together for justice. To sing a song of my neighbor is to show him/her respect and to honor his/her commitment in God’s mission.
To paraphrase the hymn by H. Ernest Nichol
 

We’ve a story to hear from the nations,
that shall turn our hearts to the right,
a story of truth and mercy,
a story of peace and light.
Sing another’s song and make it your own.
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For another article about music in global context, click here
 
MUSIC & CULTURE
Although the gift of music is universal, for centuries Christian churches around the world sang hymns primarily from American and European traditions. New hymns, reflecting the unique styles of particular cultures, are now being sung cross-culturally.
HYMNS FROM ASIA
Asia was the first mission field of 18th century missionary movements. Yet only in the 20th century have indigenous hymns begun to emerge. Many reflect the people’s suffering through colonization, occupation, war, and natural disasters.
HYMNS FROM AFRICA
It is in Africa that Christianity is growing. New hymns praise God’s sustaining and freeing love in the midst of colonial oppression, revolutions, hunger, and poverty.
HYMNS FROM
LATIN AMERICA
Church music in Latin America and the Caribbean was influenced by Catholic and Protestant missionaries. With the development of liberation theology, new music has emerged that speaks of the people’s struggle and commitment.
HYMNS FROM THE
PACIFIC ISLANDS
To sing of justice in the midst of the beauty of the Pacific Islands is to confront contrasts between the majesty of God’s creation and the challenges of weapons of war, poverty, and racism.

Related Links
Cross-cultural worship and mission (key word MUSIC)
www.ethnicharvest.org

Ethnomusicology curriculum at Fuller Theological Seminary:
www.fuller.edu

Global Praise