O Lord, Now Let Your Servant

Ernest Edwin Ryden (1886–1981) was a distinguished American Lutheran clergyman, hymnologist, and author, widely recognized for his lifelong dedication to the study and promotion of Christian hymnody. Born in 1886, he served the Lutheran Church in a variety of pastoral and editorial roles, culminating in his ministry at Emanuel Lutheran Church in North Grosvenordale, Connecticut, one of many congregations he served over the course of his career.

Ryden made a particularly significant impact through his editorial work. For twenty-seven years, he was editor of The Lutheran Companion, the official publication of the former Augustana Lutheran Church, where he helped shape the devotional and theological life of its readers. His influence extended into hymnbook development as well. He was a member of the committee responsible for the Augustana Hymnal of 1925, contributing eight original hymns and translations. He also co-edited the Junior Hymnal, writing several hymns for younger worshippers, and served as secretary of the committee that produced the Service Book and Hymnal, again contributing both original texts and translations.

As an author, Ryden is best known for his books The Story of Our Hymns and The Story of Christian Hymnody, both of which became important resources for understanding the history and meaning of Christian congregational song. His scholarship helped make hymnology more accessible to clergy and laypeople alike, combining historical insight with devotional appreciation.

Ryden’s contributions were recognized internationally. In 1949, he was honored by the King of Sweden with knighthood in the Royal Order of the North Star, acknowledging his significant work in hymnological research and his role in preserving and interpreting the heritage of Lutheran hymnody. He was also involved in the wider ecumenical movement, serving as an official representative of his church at the founding assembly of the World Council of Churches in Amsterdam in 1948.

Throughout his long life, Ernest Edwin Ryden remained deeply committed to the church’s song, contributing as a pastor, editor, writer, and scholar. His work left a lasting imprint on Lutheran worship and on the broader study of Christian hymnody.