This hymnbook was published in 1955 as a joint effort of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, United Presbyterian Church of North America, Reformed Church in America, Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, and the Presbyterian Church in the United States. The result is a hymnal reflecting the traditions and desires of the cooperating churches. It recovered many metrical psalms, and introduced a body of beloved "gospel songs" to those churches not accustomed to singing that style in worship. This hymnal also continued the tradition of careful scholarship and editing. Included are 527 hymns plus 73 responses and canticles.