The Hymnal 1982 was put together based on the Joint Commission's work by the Standing Commission on Church Music. The Hymnal 1982 had a much expanded service music and chant section, which became necessary with the introduction of the 1979 edition of the Book of Common Prayer. The Hymnal 1982 was approved by both houses of General Convention, the governing body of the Episcopal Church, in 1982.
The creation of the Hymnal 1982 was influenced by the Joint Commission's work and the Standing Commission on Church Music. As a result, it featured an expanded service music and chant section that became essential with the publication of the 1979 Book of Common Prayer. The Hymnal 1982 received endorsement from both houses of General Convention in 1982.