God Is Our Refuge and Strength

Prebendary Richard Thomas Bewes OBE (1934–2019) was an acclaimed British Anglican clergyman, broadcaster, author, and hymn writer. He served as one of the most prominent evangelical leaders of his generation in the United Kingdom, most notably succeeding legendary theologian Dr. John Stott as the Rector of All Souls Church, Langham Place, in the heart of London’s West End.

Within modern hymnody, Bewes was a vital leader in the 1960s and 70s "Hymn Explosion," injecting fresh, rhythmically vibrant texts into contemporary worship and creatively setting new theological poems to sweeping, cinematic secular melodies.

From the Slopes of Mount Kenya to Cambridge

Born in 1934 in Nairobi, Kenya, Bewes was the son of prominent British missionary parents. He spent a tranquil childhood growing up on the lower slopes of Mount Kenya, an upbringing that instilled in him a lifelong love for the African continent, a working command of the Kikuyu language, and an early exposure to the infectious joy of the East African Revival.

He moved to England for his secondary education at Marlborough College before entering Cambridge University. He completed his undergraduate studies at Emmanuel College and trained for the ordained ministry at Ridley Hall Theological College, Cambridge, entering formal ministry in 1959.

Rector of All Souls, Langham Place (1983–2004)

After successfully leading parishes in Harold Wood (Essex) and Northwood (Middlesex), Bewes was appointed by the Crown in 1983 as the Rector of All Souls, Langham Place. Standing directly opposite the BBC Broadcasting House, All Souls was a global flagship of evangelical Anglicanism.

• Global Pulpit: Under his 21-year leadership, the congregation flourished into a vibrant international community representing over 70 nationalities, drawing more than 2,500 worshippers every Sunday.

• Media and Preaching: A natural, warm communicator who fiercely believed that "prayer isn't merely supporting the work; prayer is the work," Bewes pioneered early internet sermon archiving, hosted international Bible-teaching media programs like Book by Book, and was a frequent voice on BBC Radio 4’s Thought for the Day.

He was appointed a Prebendary of St. Paul's Cathedral in 1988 and was awarded an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) by Queen Elizabeth II in 2005 for his extensive services to the Church of England.

Contributions to the Modern "Hymn Explosion"

Bewes possessed a profound gift for words and a distinct eye for musical pairing. He was a core committee member, assistant editor, and lyricist for several foundational mid-century hymnody projects that bridge classic theology with modern folk and contemporary sounds:

• Youth Praise (1966 & 1969): Collaborating with Michael Baughen, Bewes wrote vibrant, rhythmic youth-focused songs (like his space-race themed "We're in a great race to put rockets in space") to engage younger generations.

• Psalm Praise (1973): A monumental collection aimed at reviving the singing of metrical psalms using contemporary structures.

• Hymns for Today's Church (1982): A highly influential, progressive hymnal that updated archaic language while maintaining theological depth.

Signature Hymns and Musical Innovation

Bewes wrote more than 20 original hymns and frequently adapted existing classics, often boldly utilizing grand, sweeping secular orchestral tunes to give his verses maximum emotional resonance:

"God is Our Strength and Refuge" (Psalm 46)

His absolute masterpiece, this triumphant paraphrase of Psalm 46 was written specifically to be sung to the soaring, heroic melody of Eric Coates' The Dam Busters March. The pairing of a driving, majestic British march with rock-solid biblical imagery made it an instant favorite across the UK:

"God is our strength and refuge,

Our present help in trouble;

And we therefore will not fear,

Though the earth should change!

Though mountains shake and tremble,

Though swirling waters roar,

The Lord of hosts is with us,

Our stronghold evermore!"

"Let Us Sing to the God of Salvation" (Psalm 95)

A soaring, celebratory adaptation of Psalm 95 that captures the communal, energetic worship style Bewes championed throughout his life, frequently utilized to open large-scale choral festivals and Prom Praise events at the Royal Albert Hall.

"Here is Love, Vast as the Ocean" (Additional Verses)

Deeply appreciating historic revivals, Bewes wrote additional, clear English stanzas to supplement William Rees' famous Welsh revival hymn, ensuring the text flowed seamlessly for modern international congregations.

Death and Legacy

Richard Bewes passed away peacefully at his home in Virginia Water on May 10, 2019, at the age of 84. His funeral at All Souls was attended by over a thousand global church leaders and parishioners. He is remembered by colleagues and hymnologists alike not just for his striking creativity or media competence, but for his profound personal humility, his gentle pastoral spirit, and his unshakeable trust in the phrase that titled one of his books: "The Lamb Wins!"