Aaron R. Wolfe

Aaron Robarts Wolfe was a 19th-century Presbyterian educator and hymn writer, born in Mendham, New Jersey, on September 6, 1821. He received his formal education at Williams College, graduating in 1844, before pursuing theological studies at Union Theological Seminary in New York City, which he completed in 1851. On April 9 of that same year, he was formally licensed to preach by the Third Presbytery of New York, marking the beginning of a career that would blend pastoral ministry with a dedication to education.

Wolfe’s professional life was largely defined by his commitment to the education of young women. He initially took charge of a school in Tallahassee, Florida, before returning to the Northeast to establish "The Hillside Seminary for Young Ladies" in Montclair, New Jersey, in 1859. Despite his focus on academia, his literary contributions to the church were significant. In 1858, he contributed seven original hymns to Thomas Hastings’s collection, Church Melodies, under the humble signature "A. R. W."

Among his most enduring works is the hymn "Complete in Thee, no work of mine," which focuses on the sufficiency of Christ's righteousness and was originally published in the New York Evangelist around 1850. His other notable contributions include the Communion hymns "A parting hymn we sing" and "Draw near, O Holy Dove, draw near." Wolfe’s writing was characterized by a focus on the inner spiritual life, exploring themes such as conscience, the influence of the Cross, and the ultimate purpose of man. He remained an active figure in his community until his death in 1902.