This category is sponsored by the Leo and Merilyn Spencer Hymn Writing Fund. Submissions will be reviewed for effective presentation of a gospel message, artistic merit, usefulness for home or church, general appeal, and originality. Non-English submissions are welcomed. Awards of Distinction ($100), Awards of Merit ($50), and special recognitions may be given.

Rules:

1. Submissions may be made by Latter-day Saints age 16 and over.
   
   
2. Each submission should include a copy of the text on 8 ½-by-11-inch sheet of paper, one side only, accompanied by a signed statement (see rule 5).
   
   
3. Please send a copy of the original. The copy will not be returned.
   
   
4. Names must not appear on the submission.
   
   
5. Please write the following statement on an 8 ½-by-11-inch sheet of paper: "The work submitted, titled __________, is my original work, is owned by me, and conforms to the submission rules." Sign the statement and type or print your name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address.
   
   
6. Prior to award announcements, ownership rights should not be transferred. Acceptance of an award grants the Church nonexclusive, perpetual license for unlimited use. Submissions are subject to editorial changes.
   
   
7. Address material to Church Music Submission, 20th Floor, 50 East North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-6070. If you want to verify our receipt of your submission, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard.
   
   
8. You may submit only one item annually in the Hymn Text Category.
   
   
9. Hymn texts should be patterned after traditional hymn writing, using regular meters, rhyme schemes, and other standard poetic devices. The messages should be in harmony with the spirit of the restored gospel. Hymns in the hymnbook may serve as models of good hymn text writing.