Church History

In this episode, we explore the fascinating journey of the beloved hymn "How Great Thou Art," which began as a simple poem written by Swedish sailor Carl Bobbert in 1885 after witnessing a powerful storm. The hymn evolved, with each verse being inspired by different events as the song traveled across the globe—from Sweden to Germany, Russia, Ukraine, and eventually to America. The story includes missionary work, powerful moments of faith, and personal transformation, showing how a single piece of music can ripple through history, impacting countless lives. The episode highlights how God's inspiration works in ways we might never fully understand, just as Carl never knew the worldwide impact of his poem.

My Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these from the same time period:

Sunday School: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34670598/sunday-school-the-movement-that-shaped-the-education-of-the-church

William and Catherine Booth: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34678662/william-and-catherine-booth-and-the-salvation-army

The YMCA and D.L. Moody early life: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34685328/the-start-of-the-ymca-and-the-early-life-of-d-l-moody

Eugene M. Bartlett Sr. was a gifted musician and songwriter whose passion for gospel music left a lasting impact.

Born in Missouri in 1885, Bartlett's career in music took off when he co-founded the Hartford Music Company, publishing hymns and teaching music across the South. Though his life seemed perfect, a stroke in 1939 left him bedridden, but it was during this time that he wrote his most famous hymn, "Victory in Jesus." His legacy, continued by his son, lives on through the timeless message of faith and redemption in his music, which inspires countless people today.

Music: New Vision Worship

https://youtu.be/dWTgc2oqitk?si=rKXgghcU44ZzvKi1

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/new-vision-worship/1264710686

https://www.facebook.com/NewVisionWorship

https://www.instagram.com/nvworship

Links:

My Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these from the same time period:

Sunday School: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34670598/sunday-school-the-movement-that-shaped-the-education-of-the-church

William and Catherine Booth: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34678662/william-and-catherine-booth-and-the-salvation-army

The YMCA and D.L. Moody early life: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34685328/the-start-of-the-ymca-and-the-early-life-of-d-l-moody

In this episode, we explore the life of George Bennard, the writer of the beloved hymn "The Old Rugged Cross." Born in Ohio in 1873, George grew up in a coal mining family and faced many challenges from a young age.

After becoming a Christian at a Salvation Army meeting at 15, George dreamed of becoming a preacher, but his plans were put on hold when he had to support his family following his father's death.

Despite these obstacles, George eventually found his calling as a Methodist preacher. Inspired by his experiences and reflections on the cross's true meaning, George wrote "The Old Rugged Cross," a hymn that has touched countless hearts and continues bringing people to Christ today. Join us as we delve into George's story and the enduring impact of his powerful hymn.

My Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these from the same period:

The start of the Salvation Army https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34678662/william-and-catherine-booth-and-the-salvation-army

The Start of the YMCA and the Early Life of D.L. Moody https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34685328/the-start-of-the-ymca-and-the-early-life-of-d-l-moody

Billy Sunday: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34817272/billy-sunday-the-baseball-preacher

Sunday School: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34670598/sunday-school-the-movement-that-shaped-the-education-of-the-church

In this episode, we explore the life of Civilia Martin, a hymn writer whose words have comforted and inspired countless people. Born in Nova Scotia, Canada, in 1866, Civilia traveled across America with her husband, evangelist Walter Martin, singing and writing music for their ministry. In 1904, after visiting a sick friend who found peace by trusting in God's care, Civilia was inspired to write the poem "His Eye Is on the Sparrow." The poem, later set to music by composer Charles Gabriel, became a beloved hymn across North America. Join us as we delve into the story behind this timeless hymn and the faith that resonates with believers today.

My Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these from the same period:

The Start of the YMCA and the Early Life of D.L. Moody https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34685328/the-start-of-the-ymca-and-the-early-life-of-d-l-moody

Billy Sunday: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34817272/billy-sunday-the-baseball-preacher

Sunday School: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34670598/sunday-school-the-movement-that-shaped-the-education-of-the-church

In this episode, we explore the inspiring life of Fanny Crosby, a remarkable woman who overcame tremendous challenges to become one of the most prolific hymn writers in history. Born in 1820 in a young and evolving America, Fanny lost her sight due to a tragic accident when she was just a baby. Despite her blindness and other hardships, including the death of her child and surviving a cholera epidemic, Fanny's unwavering faith and exceptional memory allowed her to memorize vast portions of the Bible and write over 8,000 hymns.

We delve into the stories behind some of her most famous hymns, such as "Blessed Assurance," "To God Be the Glory," and "Rescue the Perishing." Her hymns, filled with themes of God's faithfulness and love, continue to inspire and touch the hearts of believers worldwide.

Check the show notes for links to the talented artists who perform these hymns at the end of each episode.

Links:

Song Rescue the Perishing by Fountain view Academy https://youtu.be/7SdzVOILZFQ?si=ezt5WWM03plZQiwZ

Blessed Assurance by Lor https://youtu.be/NzOHBLmEw60?si=coPVnNCHtbzqsL2I

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

Florence Nightingale the Lady of the Lamp https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-14380092/florence-nightingale-the-lady-of-the-lamp

Just As I am: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34643307/just-as-i-am-the-song-of-the-broken-hearted

D.L. Moody Part 2 https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34693937/d-l-moody-preaches-around-the-world

In this episode, we tell the touching story of William Ralph Featherstone, a young boy who gave his life to Jesus at a Methodist church in Montreal, Canada, in 1862. Overcoming his love for his Savior, William wrote a heartfelt poem expressing his devotion to Christ.

This poem, which would later become the beloved hymn "My Jesus, I Love Thee," was initially sent to his aunt in California and remained largely unknown until it was set to music and published in a hymnal.

The hymn, cherished for its simplicity and sincerity, has been included in over 900 hymnals and has inspired countless people to deepen their faith. Its timeless message, born from the pure heart of a young boy, continues to move hearts and change lives even today.

Links:

My Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these from the same period:

The Start of the YMCA and the Early Life of D.L. Moody https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34685328/the-start-of-the-ymca-and-the-early-life-of-d-l-moody

Billy Sunday: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34817272/billy-sunday-the-baseball-preacher

Sunday School: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34670598/sunday-school-the-movement-that-shaped-the-education-of-the-church

In this episode, we explore the remarkable life of Louisa M.R. Stead, a dedicated missionary and hymn writer whose faith and courage led her to serve communities in need across two continents.

After the tragic loss of her husband, Louisa heeded a long-standing call to mission work, moving with her daughter Lily to South Africa.

There, she passionately shared the Gospel, established schools, and empowered children through education. Louisa's journey of service brought her together with Robert Wodehouse, a fellow missionary with whom she fell in love and married.

Together, they spread Christian teachings and provided practical support to local communities, leaving a lasting impact through their devotion and perseverance in the face of challenges. Louisa's story is a testament to the transformative power of faith, love, and resilience in mission work.

Music: Today we will hear from Trinity Worship as they sing the hymn Tis so sweet.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/Xv-CTnfQT2k?si=fKy6t4ezuWwAiaMO

Website trinitychurchworship.com

Links:

My Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these from the same period:

The Start of the YMCA and the Early Life of D.L. Moody https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34685328/the-start-of-the-ymca-and-the-early-life-of-d-l-moody

Billy Sunday: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34817272/billy-sunday-the-baseball-preacher

Sunday School: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34670598/sunday-school-the-movement-that-shaped-the-education-of-the-church

In this episode, we explore the remarkable life of Louisa M.R. Stead, a dedicated missionary and hymn writer whose faith and courage led her to serve communities in need across two continents.

After the tragic loss of her husband, Louisa heeded a long-standing call to mission work, moving with her daughter Lily to South Africa.

There, she passionately shared the Gospel, established schools, and empowered children through education. Louisa's journey of service brought her together with Robert Wodehouse, a fellow missionary with whom she fell in love and married.

Together, they spread Christian teachings and provided practical support to local communities, leaving a lasting impact through their devotion and perseverance in the face of challenges. Louisa's story is a testament to the transformative power of faith, love, and resilience in mission work.

Music: Today we will hear from Trinity Worship as they sing the hymn Tis so sweet.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/Xv-CTnfQT2k?si=fKy6t4ezuWwAiaMO

Website trinitychurchworship.com

Links:

My Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these from the same period:

The Start of the YMCA and the Early Life of D.L. Moody https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34685328/the-start-of-the-ymca-and-the-early-life-of-d-l-moody

Billy Sunday: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34817272/billy-sunday-the-baseball-preacher

Sunday School: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34670598/sunday-school-the-movement-that-shaped-the-education-of-the-church

In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Lewis Edgar Jones, a beloved hymn writer whose compositions have inspired generations of Christians.

Born in Illinois in 1865, Jones grew up during a time of significant change in America, influenced by the Civil War and the evolving cultural landscape of rural Illinois.

Music: Today's episode features music from Athens Bible Church. You can learn more about them and listen to their worship songs through the links provided in the show notes.

Athens Bible Church: athensbible.org

YouTube: Athens Bible Church Hymn

Facebook: Athens Bible Church

Twitter: Athens Bible Church

Rumble: Athens Bible Church

My Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these from the same time period:

The Start of the YMCA and the Early Life of D.L. Moody https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34685328/the-start-of-the-ymca-and-the-early-life-of-d-l-moody

Billy Sunday: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34817272/billy-sunday-the-baseball-preacher

Charles Spurgeon: The Making of the Prince of Preachers https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34782810/charles-spurgeon-the-making-of-the-prince-of-preachers

In our 20th episode of the Hymn Series, we look at the Spafford family, who faced unimaginable pain but found peace in God’s grace.

They shared that peace with the world through a song. They then traveled to Jerusalem to share God’s love. They had a front-row seat in the Zionist movement.

* Edit for clarification. At the time of the Chicago fire, the Spaffords were working with Moody, but they were members of a church under Rev. Young. They left that church and were no longer members before leaving to work in Jerusalem.

Music in this episode:

It is well with my soul | Tenira Sturm & John Hoekman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Gjnged9Ltc

"Together for the Gospel Live" from Sovereign Grace Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHe_qmo3gX4

A Quiet Place Instrumental Hymns: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypMdzER6g2Y

Links:

https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens

If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well:

YMCA and D.L. Moody https://open.spotify.com/episode/2Jc8gVmtLAT0SSrctCkVyb

The Jews and the Church: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6zwuoaA196qRXGgHpLCfCf

The Role of the Orthodox Church in Greece: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-34696025/the-role-of-the-orthodox-church-in-ending-ottoman-rule-in-greece