Book of Common Praise (1938)

The Book of Common Praise, published in 1938, served as the principal hymnal of the Anglican Church of Canada for much of the 20th century. Compiled by a committee of the General Synod, it followed the 1908 edition and reflected the Church’s evolving liturgical and musical life. With 812 hymns and additional sections for ancient office hymns, tunes and chants, the 1938 hymnal represented both continuity and renewal in Anglican worship. Often recognized by its distinctive blue binding, it is commonly referred to as the “Blue Book.”

The Book of Common Praise (1938) was reprinted several times, with the Chant Appendix revised in 1963. Later editions also reflected the Church’s name change from “The Church of England in Canada” to “The Anglican Church of Canada.” Its preface observed that “each generation, with its problems and outlook, must ever seek new ways of expressing its ideals and aspirations”—a principle that shaped subsequent hymnals, including Common Praise (1998).

The Book of Common Praise (1938) is now out of print. A limited number of copies remain available for purchase, while supplies last, through the Anglican Church of Canada eStore.

Suggested uses

• Historical study of Anglican hymnody and worship in the 20th century
• Reference for musicians, scholars or clergy researching hymn development
• Use in heritage liturgies or traditional hymn services
• Comparative study with later hymnals such as The Hymn Book (1971) and Common Praise (1998)

Key themes

• Classic English and Canadian hymnody
• Psalms, canticles and chants
• Music for the Church year
• Devotion and liturgical heritage

Best suited for: Clergy, church musicians, historians, theological educators and anyone interested in the musical and spiritual heritage of the Anglican Church of Canada.