Brian Wren
Brian Wren is a hymnwriter whose work appears in hymnals from all denoninations and traditions throughout the English-speaking world. His popular hymns include As man and woman, we were made and Dear Christ uplifted from the earth.
Brian was the runner up in the international Millenium Hymn Competition awarded in February at St Paul's Cathedral, London. His hymn Hidden Christ, Alive For Ever was sung at St Paul's on 9th January 2000 as part of the Cathedral's 'Millenuim gift to the nation'.
Biographical Details
Born in Romford, Essex in 1936, Brian Wren studied at Oxford, taking degrees in Modern Languages and Theology, including a D. Phil for work on the Hebrew prophets.
After ordination in the Congregational Church in England and Wales (now
United Reformed Church, UK) he was minister of a Congregational church in
Essex, served as consultant to the British Council of Churches, and worked
in the student-based world poverty campaign, Third World First.
From 1983-2000, Brian followed a freelance ministry, helping worshippers,
ministers, educators and musicians to improve skills, and deepen
spirituality. He moved to the United States in 1991. From 2000-2007 he was
the John and Miriam Conant Professor of Worship at Columbia Theological
Seminary, Decatur, Georgia. He retired in 2007 and was named Professor
Emeritus.
He is married to Rev. Susan M. Heafield ("Hayfield"), a United Methodist Minister and composer.
Brian Wren's copyrights are administered by Stainer & Bell Ltd. However for USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand they are handled by Hope Publishing Company. (hope@hopepublishing.com).
Publications
Bring Many Names.
35 Hymns (1989) |
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Christ Our Hope
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Faith Renewed.
Ealier hymns revised (1995) |
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In God Rejoice!
Hymns & Psalms (2009-2012) |
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Love's Open Door.
Hymns & Songs (2004-2008) |
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New Beginnings.
30 Hymns (1993) |
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Piece Together Praise.
Poems and Collected Hymns Theologically arranged |
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Praising a Mystery.
30 Hymns (1986) |
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Tell the Good News! Volume
2. Worship Songs. Easter: Before and After.
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Visions & Revisions.
33 New Hymns & 7 Revisions (1998) |
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We Can Be Messengers.
Volume 1. Worship Songs. Christmas before and After. |