I Need Jesus

Short Name: George Orlia Webster
Full Name: Webster, George Orlia, 1866–1942
Birth Year: 1866
Death Year: 1942

Biography:
George Orlia Webster was an American hymnwriter active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Little is known about his personal life, and major hymnological sources do not provide detailed biographical information. He is remembered primarily for his extensive contributions to children’s and devotional hymnody. Over 266 hymn texts are attributed to him, many of which focus on Christian service, encouragement, and practical devotion.

Webster’s hymns frequently address themes of Christian duty, encouragement, prayer, and loyalty to God and country. Many are written for congregational singing or for use in Sunday schools. A significant number are devotional in nature, emphasizing trust in God, perseverance in trials, and spiritual growth. He also wrote narrative hymns, patriotic hymns, and songs intended for youth and young children.

Notable Hymns (selected):

• Through the Land a Call Is Sounding

• I Need Jesus, My Need I Now Confess

• Love Led the Savior, in Days Long Ago

• Sometimes I See Through Mists of Bitter Tears

• Hail to the Great Creator, Wonderful Are His Ways

• Savior, Bless the Little Children, Teach Them How to Live for Thee

• Nearer Draw Me, Blessed Savior

• We Love Our Country’s Starry Flag

Publications and Contributions:

• His hymns appeared widely in Sunday school hymnals, children’s hymnbooks, and devotional collections during his lifetime and posthumously.

• Many of his hymns emphasize moral guidance, encouragement for Christian living, and practical expressions of faith.

• His work remains part of hymnological archives, such as Hymntime.com and the Library of Congress authority records.

Notes:

• Webster’s contributions were significant for children’s and youth hymnody in the early 20th century.

• His hymns are often set to accessible tunes suitable for congregational or school use.

• While biographical details are scarce, the breadth and devotional character of his work have secured him a place in American hymnology.