Frances R. Havergal

Frances Ridley Havergal (1836–1879) was an English hymn writer and religious poet known for her deeply devotional texts that have remained beloved in Christian worship. She was born on December 14, 1836, in Astley, Worcestershire, England, the daughter of the Rev. William Henry Havergal, himself a composer and hymn writer. Frances demonstrated remarkable intellectual and spiritual gifts early in life, reading Scripture by age four, memorizing large portions of the Bible, and composing verse by age seven. Her education was broad and included several modern languages as well as Greek and Hebrew, reflecting both scholarly discipline and passionate devotion.

In 1851 Frances committed her life to Christ, an event she later described as bringing new brightness to both earth and heaven. As she grew in faith, her writing became a primary expression of her devotion, aimed at glorifying God and encouraging others in their walk with Christ. Although she did not claim to be a major poet, she carved out a distinctive place in English sacred literature by singing simply and sweetly of the love of God and the way of salvation.

Havergal spent much of her adult life in various locations, including Leamington and Caswell Bay, Swansea, with travels in Switzerland, Scotland, and Wales. Her hymns were often first published as leaflets or in small devotional collections before being gathered into larger volumes such as Ministry of Song (1869), Under the Surface (1874), and Loyal Responses (1878). She also wrote works for children and devotional tracts, demonstrating a commitment to both theological richness and personal piety.

Among her best-known hymns are Take My Life and Let It Be, I Gave My Life for Thee, Master, Speak! Thy Servant Heareth, True-Hearted, Whole-Hearted, Faithful and Loyal, and Who Is on the Lord’s Side? These texts reflect themes of consecration, trust in Christ, mission, and wholehearted service. Her hymn Take My Life especially expresses her own lifelong desire for complete surrender to Christ’s service.

Despite fragile health throughout her life, Frances remained active in writing, Bible study, and correspondence, particularly with young women seeking spiritual guidance. She died on June 3, 1879, at Caswell Bay, Wales, at the age of 42, and was buried in the churchyard at St. Peter’s, Astley. Her legacy endures in the enduring popularity of her hymns and devotional writings, which continue to inspire believers with their passion for Christ and call to devoted discipleship.