Karen Lafferty
1948– · USA · Modern
Karen Lafferty is an American Christian music composer and worship leader born in 1948, prominently associated with the charismatic renewal and Jesus Movement of the 1970s. She is best known for composing "Seek Ye First," one of the most enduring contemporary Christian hymns, which has become a staple in evangelical and mainline Protestant churches worldwide. Lafferty's compositions reflect the contemporary worship style that emerged during the charismatic movement, blending accessible melodies with biblical texts and spiritual themes. Her work contributed significantly to the development of modern worship music, moving beyond traditional hymnal formats toward spontaneous, spirit-led praise. Through her songwriting and worship leadership, Lafferty helped shape the landscape of contemporary Christian music and remains an influential figure in evangelical hymnody.