"...What men sing in the worship of God is both an expression of what they are in moral and spiritual character, and also has a powerful part in the formation of character. If a man sings an irreverent song he thereby shows that he has a low estimate of the majesty and glory and exalted station of the God he worships, and just as he as such a low and false estimation of the rank and dignity of God he lowers himself. ...The design of this Hymnal is to furnish all who use it a means of expressing their emotions of gratitude, praise to God, and sorrow for sin, and aspirations for holiness, and enjoyment of the grace obtained from God..."
From the Preface of The Wesleyan Methodist Hymnal: designed for use in the Wesleyan Methodist Connection (or Church) of America, Wesleyan Methodist Publishing Association, 1910.