Frances Ridley Havergal
- Born:
- December 14, 1836, Astley, Worcestershire, England
- Died:
- June 19, 1879, Caswell Bay, Swansea, Wales
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Hymn Writer, Poet, Composer
Early Life and Education
- Daughter of William Henry Havergal, a clergyman, composer, and hymnologist.
- Exhibited early musical talent, playing the piano at age seven.
- Educated privately and at schools in England and Germany.
- Displayed a remarkable ability for languages, including Hebrew, Greek, Latin, and several modern European languages.
Career and Major Achievements
- Dedicated her life to Christian service through writing and music.
- Began writing hymns and poetry in her youth, with increasing recognition in adulthood.
- Devoted herself to evangelistic work, often visiting schools and holding meetings.
- Known for her profound spirituality and commitment to personal holiness.
- Her writings and hymns gained widespread popularity during her lifetime and continue to be sung and read today.
- The biography of Frances Ridley Havergal memorizing verses from Scripture to encourage and edify herself and others highlights her deep faith.
Notable Works
- "Take My Life and Let It Be"
- "Lord, Speak to Me, That I May Speak"
- "Like a River Glorious"
- "Golden Vesper" (collection of poems and hymns)
- "Kept for the Master's Use" (prose work)
- "Royal Bounty" (prose work)
Legacy and Impact
Frances Ridley Havergal left a lasting legacy as a prolific hymn writer and inspirational Christian figure. Her hymns are known for their devotional depth and lyrical beauty, and they continue to be sung in churches worldwide. Her writings have inspired generations of Christians to seek a closer relationship with God and to dedicate their lives to His service.