Frederick Faber
1814–1863 · England · Classical
Frederick William Faber (1814-1863) was an English clergyman and hymnodist who initially served as an Anglican vicar before converting to Roman Catholicism in 1845. He became an Oratorian priest and emerged as one of the most prolific and beloved hymn writers of the Victorian era, composing over 150 hymns that blended emotional devotion with accessible melodies. His hymns, including "My God, How Wonderful Thou Art" and "Faith of Our Fathers," became staples of Catholic worship and remain widely sung in Christian churches today. Faber's work was instrumental in enriching the Catholic hymn tradition during a period when Catholic hymnody was relatively underdeveloped in English-speaking countries. His legacy significantly influenced the revival of congregational singing in the Roman Catholic Church and established him as a major figure in 19th-century Christian hymnody.