Frances Ridley Havergal

Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879) was an English evangelical Anglican hymn writer and devotional poet whose fervent faith and literary talent made her one of the most beloved hymnodists of the Victorian era. She composed numerous hymns characterized by their personal intensity, scriptural depth, and accessibility, including the well-known hymn 'Take My Life and Let It Be' which reflects her theology of complete consecration to Christ. Her works were shaped by the evangelical revival movement and Tractarian influences within the Church of England, combining poetic sophistication with heartfelt spirituality. Though her life was cut short by illness at age 42, her prolific output of hymns, devotional writings, and poems secured her lasting influence on Protestant worship. Havergal remains celebrated for expressing the inner devotional life through hymnody and for inspiring generations of Christians through her emphasis on personal commitment and service.

Hymn Texts (10)

• 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