Laura S. Copenhaver

Laura Scherer Copenhaver (1868–1940)

Laura Scherer Copenhaver was an American educator, hymn writer, missionary advocate, and literary contributor whose work reflected a deep commitment to Christian education and global missions. Through her hymns and leadership in church organizations, she encouraged believers toward faithful service and gospel outreach.

She was born on August 29, 1868, in Marion. She was the daughter of John Jacob Copenhaver, founder of Marion College, an institution that played an important role in Lutheran education. Her sister, May Copenhaver, also served there as dean of women, making education and Christian service central themes within the family.

Laura Copenhaver became a professor of English Literature at Marion College, where she devoted herself to teaching and intellectual formation. Alongside her academic work, she wrote hymns, articles, and devotional materials that reflected both literary ability and spiritual conviction.

She was especially active in missionary work through the church, serving as chairman of the education committee of the Woman’s Missionary Society of the United Lutheran Church. In this role, she promoted Christian education, missionary awareness, and support for gospel work around the world.

Copenhaver is best remembered in hymnody for the missionary hymn:

“Heralds of Christ, Who Bear the King’s Command”

This hymn calls Christians to carry the message of Christ faithfully to the nations, emphasizing evangelism, obedience, and dedication to the King’s service. Its strong missionary emphasis made it widely used in churches, conferences, and mission gatherings. The hymn later appeared in translation as well, including a Malayalam version used among Indian Christian congregations.

Her writing reflected themes of:

• Christian duty and service

• Missionary commitment

• Loyalty to Christ

• The spread of the gospel

• Educational and spiritual formation

Laura Scherer Copenhaver died on December 18, 1940, in Marion, Virginia, and was buried in Round Hill Cemetery.

Her legacy continues through hymns that encouraged the Church to carry Christ’s message faithfully to the world.