The Sacred Harp hymnal, unchanged since 1985, will debut new songs in its 2025 edition.

The Sacred Harp, a pre-Civil War hymnal featuring unique shaped notes, is set to receive its first update in 34 years. The revision, delayed by the pandemic, will include new songs by contemporary composers and remove some older ones, aiming to preserve its relevance. The new edition will be released in September at the annual United Sacred Harp Musical Association convention in Atlanta. The process maintains the hymnal's role as a living tradition that unites generations.