Michael Brooks
Be Not Afraid is a popular Catholic hymn that has been included in the hymnals of various Christian denominations. It was written by Bob Dufford, a Jesuit priest, in 1972, before he was ordained. The hymn is based on Psalm 27 and is meant to provide comfort and reassurance during times of fear, grief, or significant life transitions. The lyrics encourage followers not to be afraid, reminding them that God is always with them and will provide strength and guidance. The hymn has brought comfort to many, and its message resonates with people from different denominations and backgrounds, making it a beloved and well-known song in the Christian faith.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lyricist | Bob Dufford, S.J. |
| Composition Year | 1972 |
| Composition Setting | Jesuit retreat |
| Inspiration | Anxiety about the future |
| Denomination | Catholic |
| Lyrics | You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst... Be not afraid. I go before you always... Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name... |
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What You'll Learn
'Be Not Afraid' as a source of comfort
The popular Catholic hymn "Be Not Afraid" has brought comfort to many people facing intimidating transitions in life or grappling with anxiety about the future. The song was written by Bob Dufford, S.J., in 1972, when he himself was afraid—preparing to be ordained, he was anxious about his future as a priest.
The hymn's message of reassurance and comfort is reflected in its lyrics: "You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way. [...] If you pass through raging waters in the sea, you shall not drown. If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed. If you stand before the power of hell and death is at your side, know that I am with you through it all."
The song has been included in the hymnals of every Christian denomination, and people often sing it in times of fear or grief. It has brought comfort to those facing death or comforting dying relatives. One person shared, "I see it as a beautiful reassurance of God taking care of His children." Another commented, "It's now coming back and comforting me, as it did when my father died."
The hymn "Be Not Afraid" serves as a reminder of God's presence and protection, offering hope and courage in the face of life's challenges and uncertainties. It speaks to the heart, providing comfort and strength to those who hear and sing it.
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The hymn's origins
The origins of the popular Catholic hymn, "Be Not Afraid", can be traced back to 1972, when Bob Dufford, S.J., wrote the song while grappling with anxiety about his future as a priest. Dufford, who was on a Jesuit retreat at the time, composed the hymn as a way to comfort and reassure himself during a period of fear and uncertainty.
The song is based on verses from Psalm 27 and includes powerful messages of hope, comfort, and the promise of God's presence and protection. One of the most well-known verses from the hymn is: "You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way". This verse speaks to the idea of trusting in God's guidance and provision, even during challenging and uncertain times.
Another verse that captures the comforting message of the hymn is: "If you pass through raging waters in the sea, you shall not drown. If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed. If you stand before the power of hell and death is at your side, know that I am with you through it all". Here, the hymn reassures believers of God's constant presence and protection, even in the face of danger, adversity, or death.
The hymn has become a source of comfort and strength for many people, not just those in the Catholic faith. It has been included in the hymnals of various Christian denominations and is often sung during times of fear, grief, or transition. "Be Not Afraid" serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the hope that can be found in following His path.
While the hymn is associated with funerals and grief, it is also celebrated as a song of reassurance and comfort, reminding believers of God's constant presence and provision. "Be Not Afraid" has touched the lives of many and continues to be a beloved hymn that speaks to the heart of those who hear it.
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The hymn's message of reassurance
The Catholic hymn "Be Not Afraid" is a message of reassurance and comfort. It is a reminder that God is always with us, even in times of fear, grief, or uncertainty. The hymn, written by Bob Dufford, a Jesuit priest, is a setting of verses from Psalm 27.
The lyrics of the hymn are powerful and comforting: "You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way". It reassures believers that even in life's unknown journeys and challenges, God is with them, guiding and protecting them. The hymn further emphasizes this message with the words: "If you pass through raging waters in the sea, you shall not drown. If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed". It is a reminder that even in the midst of life's storms and trials, God is our refuge and strength.
"Be Not Afraid" also speaks of God's love and hope: "Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name. Come and follow me; I will bring you home; I love you, and you are mine". These words offer comfort and assurance, reminding believers of their unique relationship with God and His promise to guide and bring them home. The hymn continues with a message of hope, especially for those facing despair or shame: "I am strength for all the despairing, healing for the ones who dwell in shame. All the blind will see, the lame will run free, and all will know my name".
The hymn has brought comfort to many facing intimidating transitions in life or the loss of loved ones. It is a reminder that God is our light in the darkness and our hope in times of fear and uncertainty. "Be Not Afraid" reassures believers that they are not alone and that God will bring them through life's challenges. This hymn has become a source of solace and encouragement for many, a beautiful testament to the power of its message.
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The hymn's place in Christian denominations
Hymns are a fixture of Christian worship, with a long history dating back to the ancient Greeks and Egyptians. In the context of Christianity, hymns are songs of praise, addressed to God or Jesus Christ. They are often written with special or seasonal themes and used on holy days such as Christmas and Easter, or during particular seasons like Advent and Lent.
The practice of singing hymns, or hymnody, varies across different Christian denominations. For example, some groups, such as the Brethren, Churches of Christ, and Mennonites, have historically excluded instrumental accompaniment, opting for a cappella congregational singing. In contrast, other denominations may include instruments in their worship services.
The Catholic Church, for instance, has a rich tradition of hymnody, with hymns like "Be Not Afraid" being included in the hymnals of every Christian denomination. This particular hymn was written by Bob Dufford, a Jesuit priest, to comfort and ease fear and grief. It is often sung outside of church, in times of personal struggle or transition.
Hymns also play a significant role in radical Protestant movements, where they have sometimes replaced the written Bible. For instance, the Doukhobors, a Russian denomination, have a collection of oral hymns called the Book of Life, which is sung aloud.
In conclusion, hymns hold a significant place in Christian worship across various denominations. They are used to express praise, encourage reverence, and provide comfort and mutual encouragement during life's transitions and struggles. Each denomination may have its own unique subset of hymns, reflecting the diverse nature of Christian worship and its ability to adapt to different cultural and historical contexts.
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The hymn's lyrics
"Do Not Be Afraid" is a popular hymn for funerals. It is about trusting in God and was composed by Gerard Markland. The hymn is a setting of some verses of Psalm 27 and was composed around 1973.
Do Not Be Afraid, For I Have Redeemed You. I Have Called You By Your Name; You Are Mine. When You Walk Through The Waters I’ll Be With You, You Will Never Have To Sink Beneath The Waves. Do Not Be Afraid, For I Have Redeemed You. I Have Called You By Your Name; You Are Mine.
When The Fire Is Burning All Around You, You Will Never Be Consumed By The Flames. Do Not Be Afraid, For I Have Redeemed You. I Have Called You By Your Name; You Are Mine. When The Fear Of Loneliness Is Looming, Then Remember I Am At Your Side.
Do Not Be Afraid, For I Have Redeemed You. I Have Called You By Your Name; You Are Mine. When You Dwell In The Exile Of A Stranger, Remember You Are Precious In My Eyes. Do Not Be Afraid, For I Have Redeemed You. I Have Called You By Your Name; You Are Mine.
You Are Mine, Oh My Child; I Am Your Father, And I Love You With A Perfect Love.
The above lyrics are also sometimes followed by:
I am strength for all the despairing, Healing for the ones who dwell in shame. All the blind will see, The lame will run free, And all will know my name. Do not be afraid, I am with you. I have called you each by name. Come and follow me I will bring you home; I love you and you are mine.
Another version of the hymn has the following lyrics:
You shall cross the barren desert, but you shall not die of thirst. You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way. You shall speak your words in foreign lands and all will understand. You shall see the face of God and live. Be not afraid. I go before you always. Come, follow me, and I will give you rest.
If you pass through raging waters in the sea, you shall not drown. If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed. If you stand before the power of hell and death is at your side, know that I am with you through it all. Be not afraid.
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Frequently asked questions
The lyrics to the hymn are:
> Do not be afraid, I am with you, I have called you each by name. Come and follow me, I will bring you home; I love you and you are mine. I am the Word that leads all to freedom, I am the peace the world cannot give. I will call your name, Embracing all your pain, Stand up, now walk, and live! Do not be afraid, I am with you.
"Do Not Be Afraid" was written by Bob Dufford, S.J. Dufford, who later became a Father, wrote the song in 1972 while grappling with anxiety about his future as a priest.
"Do Not Be Afraid" is often sung in times of fear or grief. It is meant to provide comfort and reassurance, reminding listeners that God is always with them and that they should not be afraid.
