Paul Westermeyer

Anna B. Hoppe

History & Biography

“With copious quotations Elisabeth Urtel tells the story of the life and vocation of the faithful hymn writer Anna Hoppe, with evaluative comments about her hymns. This study gives insights into the challenges and contingencies of Hoppe s period and the hymnic themes that transcend them. We owe Urtel our gratitude both for the detail about Hoppe and her hymns, and for the perspective it provides about the nature of hymnody.”

Glimpses of the New Creation

Preaching & Worship

“David Taylor provides a thoughtful depth of perspective and attendant practical import. Artists and musicians, especially ones who have been treated badly, will find welcome comfort and encouragement for their vocational commitments. Mostly, however, the whole church will benefit.”

Joyful Singing

Preaching & Worship

“The song of the church comes to us in many and various ways. Benjamin Kolodziej deserves deep thanks for his account of a faithful way among Texas Lutherans. Lutherans and others will benefit from this history and its insights.”

Life Woven into God

Preaching & Worship

“Sermons take many forms even by one preacher, as do these. No matter what form, however, sermons lose something in print because their nature is to be proclaimed in sound. A reader therefore may approach a book like this with some suspicion. Be not afraid. You will be edified, maybe occasionally surprised. These are worth reading. They are skillfully crafted, faithful to the gospel, and avoid sectarian temptations by following the Revised Common Lectionary.”

Luther’s Liturgical Music

Preaching & Worship

“If you want a comprehensive, detailed, and up-to-date summary of Martin Luther's work in relation to music and worship, along with commentary, here it is. Robin Leaver has searched out, organized, and summarized the sources. His extensive footnotes make it possible for others to follow his steps and draw their own conclusions, but what emerges as virtually unassailable is the critical importance of music in Luther's reforming efforts, in the work of his colleagues, and in the Lutheran tradition that followed him. This book helps us understand both Luther and the Lutheran heritage in a clearer and more accurate light.”

Music—God’s Mysterious Gift

Preaching & Worship

“A detailed, multi-disciplinary study of music from a Christian confessional perspective, this book explores music as God’s gift through music theory, physiology, history, and culture. A substantive book worth the time and effort it takes to read.”

My Only Comfort

Arts & Literature

“Here is a remarkable book. Calvin Stapert, a Calvinist, gives a clear and responsible introduction to Johann Sebastian Bach, a Lutheran, from a theological and musical standpoint. He then sets a Calvinist document, the Heidelberg Catechism, in dialogue with Bach's music. The result pushes beyond either Calvin or Luther to a faithful catholic breadth. This is a book for anyone who wants to get at the essence of J. S. Bach.”

Singing Church History

History & Biography

“This book scans the history of the Christian church by means of hymns. In the process, it provides theological and historical insights. It is a valuable resource for scholars, teachers, church musicians, and others who seek to understand the church and its song.”

The Whole Church Sings

Preaching & Worship

“A most welcome addition to Reformation studies generally and to Luther's contribution to the church's song particularly. The text tells the story, but for those who want even more details, the footnotes and appendices amply provide the data to pursue them. We owe Leaver deep and abiding gratitude.”