This long-awaited companion serves as a vital reference on the creation, the language, and the hymns of The New Century Hymnal. It presents hymn profiles by Robert L. Anderson, who offers four different background notes with engaging information on each hymn. This unique format covers the hymn text and circumstances of its creation, biographical data on the hymn writer, origins of the hymn tune, and biography of the composer or arranger. Permission is included for the notes to be read aloud or reproduced for worship, enhancing the congregation's understanding and appreciation of the hymns.