A. H. Ackley

Alfred Henry Ackley (1887–1960) was a notable American hymn writer, composer, Presbyterian minister, and contributor to early twentieth century gospel music. He was born on January 21, 1887, in Spring Hill, Pennsylvania, the youngest son of Stanley Frank Ackley and the younger brother of fellow musician Bentley DeForest Ackley. Ackley’s first musical training came from his father, and he went on to study composition and harmony at the Royal Academy of Music in London. After completing his education, he attended Westminster Theological Seminary in Maryland and was ordained as a Presbyterian minister in 1914, serving congregations in Pennsylvania and later in California.

In addition to his pastoral work, Ackley was deeply involved in gospel music. He worked with the evangelist team of Billy Sunday and Homer Rodeheaver and contributed to the music publishing associated with their campaigns. Over the course of his life he composed approximately 1,500 hymns and gospel songs, many of which were included in hymnals and songbooks throughout the United States and beyond. His music often expressed heartfelt devotion, Christian assurance, and personal testimony. 

Ackley’s most enduring hymn is He Lives (first line I serve a risen Savior, He’s in the world today), written in 1933 in response to a question posed by a young man at a revival meeting about why Christians worship Jesus. The hymn joyfully proclaims the risen Christ and remains widely sung in Christian worship, especially around Easter. He Lives reflects the composer’s deep faith and theological grounding, and it continues to encourage believers with its vibrant message of the living Savior.

Ackley retired from active pastoral ministry later in life but continued his work in music. He died on July 3, 1960, in Los Angeles, leaving behind a substantial legacy in Christian hymnody that endures in congregational singing and personal devotion.