“What a Friend We Have in Jesus” is a Christian hymn with lyrics written by Joseph M. Scriven, a native of Ireland. The music for the hymn was composed by Charles Crozat Converse. The story behind the song is both touching and inspirational.
Joseph M. Scriven’s Life: Joseph Medlicott Scriven was born in 1819 in Banbridge, County Down, Ireland. He grew up in a prosperous family and received a good education. However, tragedy struck Scriven’s life when he was in his mid-twenties. In 1843, just before his planned wedding, his fiancée drowned the night before their wedding. This heartbreaking event had a profound impact on Scriven and shaped the course of his life.
In the aftermath of this personal tragedy, Scriven decided to leave Ireland and eventually settled in Canada. There, he dedicated his life to helping others, particularly those in need and those who were suffering. He lived a simple life and became known for his acts of kindness and compassion.
Writing “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”: It was during his time in Canada that Joseph Scriven wrote the poem that would later become the lyrics for “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” He wrote the poem as a comforting message for his ailing mother, who was still in Ireland. The poem expressed his deep trust in God and the solace he found in his faith during times of trial.
The poem was originally titled “Pray Without Ceasing” and was intended as a private message. However, over time, it spread among Scriven’s friends and acquaintances, gaining popularity for its profound spiritual message.
Charles Crozat Converse’s Contribution: The poem caught the attention of American musician and composer Charles Crozat Converse. Converse composed the music to accompany Scriven’s lyrics, creating the hymn that we now know as “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” The hymn was first published in 1868 in a hymnal titled “Songs of Praise and Prayer.”
Legacy and Impact: “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” has become one of the most beloved and enduring hymns in Christian worship. Its timeless message of finding solace and strength in prayer and trusting in God’s faithfulness has resonated with people around the world. The hymn has been translated into numerous languages and is sung in churches across denominations.
The story behind the hymn reflects the personal trials and deep faith of its author, Joseph M. Scriven. Despite the heartbreak he experienced, Scriven’s enduring legacy is a hymn that continues to bring comfort and inspiration to countless individuals facing challenges in their lives.
