Christopher Idle

Christopher Idle is a contemporary English hymn writer and Anglican clergyman born in 1938, recognized as one of the most prolific modern hymn text authors. His work has appeared extensively in Lutheran and evangelical hymnals, characterized by biblically grounded lyrics with contemporary accessibility and theological depth. Idle's hymns reflect both traditional hymnic values and modern sensibilities, making complex theological concepts comprehensible to contemporary congregations. His contributions have significantly shaped post-1970s English-language Christian hymnody, and his texts continue to be widely adopted in worship settings across multiple Protestant traditions. As both a creative artist and pastoral theologian, Idle has been instrumental in bridging classical hymn-writing traditions with the needs of modern church communities.

Hymn Texts (12)

• I Gave My Life for Thee (1858) · 7.7.7.7
• Now the Light has Gone Away (1870) · 7.7.7.7
• On Our Way Rejoicing (1871) · 7.7.7.7
• Greet Now the Swiftly Changing Year (1874) · 7.6.7.6 D
• I Am Trusting Thee Lord Jesus (1874) · 8.7.8.7
• Lord Speak to Us That We May Speak (1874) · 7.7.7.7
• O Savior, Precious Savior (1874) · 7.7.7.7
• Take My Life That I May Be (1874) · 7.7.7.7
• Take My Life That I May Be (1874) · 7.7.7.7
• The Lord is My Light (1874) · 7.7.7.7
• Lord Who at Cana's Wedding-Feast (1894) · L.M. (8.8.8.8)
• O Thou from Whom All Goodness Flows (1982) · L.M.