Hymn histories

"Blessed Assurance," No. 369 in the United Methodist Hymnal, is a beloved classic written by Fanny Crosby and Phoebe Palmer Knapp. Photo by Crystal Caviness, United Methodist Communications.

For centuries, United Methodists have sung beloved hymns rich with history. 

Explore the stories behind the some of the songs we sing during Advent, Lent and for all the occasions when we gather together, open our United Methodist Hymnals and lift our voices.

The origins of popular Advent hymn, "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," extend back to the 9th century. Photo by Crystal Caviness, United Methodist Communications

United Methodists often turn to no. 211 in the United Methodist Hymnal to sing "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" during Advent. Few likely know this popular seasonal hymn's origins extend back to the 9th century.

"Count Your Blessings" was first published in 1897 in "Songs for Young People."

"Count Your Blessings," a hymn first published more than a century ago, suggests gratitude is a way to overcome the challenges of the world.

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