Retraction from Andrew Mair

I want to offer a sincere correction and apology regarding the information I shared in this episode about the hymn “God’s Gracious Love,” Hymn #1013. In preparing for that episode, I took notes across several sources. Unfortunately, I inadvertently included details about the wrong hymn and then, moving too quickly, compiled those notes using AI assistance without properly reviewing the final content. As a result, much of the information I shared about the origin, authorship, and background of the hymn was incorrect.

Most notably, while I referenced the beloved LDS composer Sally DeFord and attributed this hymn to her, “God’s Gracious Love” is not one of her compositions. This error is entirely mine, and I deeply regret the confusion it may have caused.

Please disregard the commentary shared in that episode and refer to official Church resources or the published hymnbook for accurate information about this and other hymns. Sally DeFord continues to be an extraordinary contributor to sacred music, and I regret any misattribution that may have misrepresented her work.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support as I strive to share meaningful and accurate reflections.

— Andrew Mair

Sally DeFord is a prolific and beloved composer within the LDS community. Born in 1959 in Eugene, Oregon, she has made a significant impact on LDS music through her beautiful and inspiring compositions1. Much like Janice Kapp Perry, DeFord has become a household name among Church members due to her extensive catalog of choral, duet, solo, and instrumental music.

Key Points About Sally DeFord:

Prolific Composer: DeFord has written a wide range of music that is both creative and spiritually uplifting. Her works are known for their beauty and emotional depth.

Accessibility: One of the most remarkable aspects of DeFord’s contributions is that she offers her compositions and arrangements for free on her website. This generosity makes her music accessible for solos, small group numbers, and ward choirs, regardless of budget constraints.

“The Lord has placed me in circumstances that currently don’t demand extra income, he has inspired the creators of technology to produce programs that I can use to publish the music without the assistance of typesetters, and he has given me a gift that I did nothing to earn. Sharing seems logical.” -Sally Deford

Influence: Her music has proliferated throughout LDS culture, becoming a staple in many Church meetings and events. Her arrangements are often used in worship services, making her a significant figure in the Church’s musical life.

DeFord’s dedication to sharing her talents freely has endeared her to many, and her music continues to inspire and uplift members of the Church worldwide.

Day by day, God’s gracious love surrounds me

As a balm to soothe my troubled heart.

Countless cares and worries that confound me

Fade away or quietly depart,

For His heart is kind beyond all measure,

And He comforts us as He knows best.

Ev’ry day, with all its pain and pleasure,

Mingles tears with peace and rest.

Day by day, the Lord is ever near me,

Granting loving mercies for each hour,

And my care He gladly bears, and cheers me

With His counsel pure and holy pow’r.

I’ll not fear for what may come tomorrow,

Though the path ahead I cannot see.

He assures that in all joy or sorrow,

“As thy days, thy strength shall be.”

Help me rest in quiet consolation.

Help me trust Thy promises, O Lord.

When I’m faced with daily tribulation,

Help me find the strength to live Thy word.

Then, dear Lord, when toil and trouble find me,

Hold me steadfast in Thy pow’rful hand.

Day by day, Thy strength will bear me kindly

Till I reach the promised land.

The post 849 Hear Hymn God’s Gracious Love  #1013 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.