Hymn Stories

Have you ever wondered about the stories behind some of your favorite hymns? In this session, several speakers present the fascinating events that led to the creation of several popular hymns.

“Count Your Blessings” presented by Brian Birky

This song was inspired through the prayers of a mother, a transformative experience at a missions’ conference, the pleadings of a student in Japan, and in spite of persecution. The same man also wrote “Let There Be Light.”

“O for a Closer Walk with God” presented by Allan Kropf

This hymn was borne out of many difficulties, including depression, the death of a mother, bullying, suicide attempts, the sickness of a close friend, and time in a mental asylum.

“It Is Well with My Soul” presented by Dan Weaver

This hymn was composed in one of the lowest points of the author’s life, following the financial devastation of the Chicago fire and the tragic loss of his four daughters.

“Hymn Stories” were presented by Brian Birky, Allan Kropf, and Dan Weaver at Western Fellowship Teachers’ Institute in August of 2024 at Lighthouse Mennonite School in Halsey, Oregon.