A hymnal is a book containing the words and music for hymns, which are religious songs sung during worship services. You'll find hymnals in the pews or on chairs at churches, temples, and synagogues, ready for the congregation to use during services.

When it's time to sing, someone announces a hymn number, and everyone flips through their hymnal to find the right page. The book shows both the lyrics and the musical notes, though many people just follow along with the words while listening to others carry the tune. Churches often have hundreds of hymnals, all identical, so every person can hold one during the service.

Different religious traditions have their own hymnals containing the songs most meaningful to their community. Some hymnals are centuries old, passed down through generations, while others are recently published with modern songs alongside traditional ones.

Today, some congregations project hymn lyrics on screens instead of using physical books, but many still prefer hymnals. There's something special about holding the same book your grandparents might have held, turning to a familiar hymn, and joining your voice with others in song.