The Birth of a Hymn is a fascinating look at the spiritual journeys of 20 hymn writers. Drawing on careful, insightful research, Dr. Keith Schwanz gives you glimpses into their lives, their thoughts, and the experiences that shaped their hymns. His selection includes contemporary writers like Gloria Gaither and George Beverly Shea, as well as voices from the past like Fanny Crosby and Haldor Lillenas. All were chosen for their association with the American Holiness Movement, a little-researched portion of our hymnology. Schwanz writes, 'John Wesley, the patriarch of the Wesleyan/Holiness Movement . . . had a high view of congregational singing. He believed that through the hymns of the church spiritual formation would occur. As a spiritual descendant of John Wesley, I hope this book enriches your hymn singing and your spiritual life as you 'grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ' (2 Pet. 3:18).'
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