Digital Hymnody: Preserving and Propagating Christian Hymns through Online Platforms

Christian hymns have long been central to the life of the Church, serving not only as tools of worship and doctrinal instruction but also as vital expressions of communal faith and identity. However, with cultural shifts, the rise of contemporary praise music, and decreasing engagement from younger generations, the place of traditional hymns in worship has diminished. At the same time, the digital age has introduced unprecedented opportunities for revitalisation. This chapter explores the concept and practice of digital hymnody, emphasising how social media platforms, websites, and mobile applications are now employed to preserve, transmit, and adapt classical hymns for new audiences. Drawing from case studies within Nigerian and global Baptist traditions, it analyses how online platforms redefine hymnological engagement for worship, theological education, and missional purposes. The chapter also critiques the challenges of doctrinal dilution, contextual disconnection, and copyright complexities while affirming the potential of digital hymnody in fostering spiritual continuity, peace, and intergenerational discipleship.