07/22/2026
Attending the Church of God General Assembly in Orlando? Visit “Making a Joyful Noise: Our Church of God Musical Heritage” in the exhibit hall! This extensive exhibit features the stories of Church of God music and musicians from the Appalachian roots of our founding in 1886 to the many varied contemporary worship practices in 2026, which is the 75th anniversary of the famed “Red Back” Hymnal.
Born as a Baptist Reformation Movement and transformed by the Holiness and Pentecostal Movements, for many decades gospel songs were the predominant music of the Church of God. Following our establishment of Tennessee Music and Printing Company in 1931, we quickly became a leader in publishing shape-note, convention style songbooks and sheet music. Our publication of the "Church Hymnal," affectionately known as the Red Back Hymnal, shaped worship for decades. In recent years, changing cultures, diverse contexts, and global expansion have produced a variety of contemporary music styles. Particularly significant are our educational institutions that continue to nurture students and worship leaders.
