On this page I have included links to some songs I have written over the years. I believe that they support the message of this site. Most have been inspired by hymn tunes I admire.
The links are to my Blog where the poetry and music first appeared under the category of “songs/hymns.”
Be Now Our Vision
I recently wrote new words to the old hymn “Be Thou My Vision.” It is based on a traditional Irish tune called “Slane.”
Doxology for Humanity
I wrote this for Thanksgiving in 2013 when our table included those born in the USA, Iraq, Korea, and Ethiopia. With Christians, Muslims, and “nones” united, we sang the Doxology together as a common prayer for peace and justice in the world.
The Kingdom Is at Hand
I originally wrote this song fifty years ago—in 1976. It was written and performed for a special occasion. The song was largely forgotten after that.
My theology has changed a lot since then. So, I decided it was time for a revision. I was inspired by the hymn “O Sacred Head Now Wounded” by Johann Sebastian Bach and by Paul Simon’s “American Tune” which uses the Bach chorale’s melody.
Follow Jesus
This song was inspired by the music of “Untitled Hymn (Come to Jesus)” by Chris Rice.
A Child Is Born
I first wrote this short little poem in 2002, nearly a quarter of a century ago. Recently, the talented hymn writer and composer, Amanda Udis-Kessler, set it to music.
O God of Peace and Love
I wrote his piece of music in 2002 inspired by the beautiful Irish folk tune of “The Wexford Carol.”
Joined with Love
I wrote this hymn in 1999 for the wedding of Amy Struckmeyer and Jim Skalla. It is set to the “Hymn of Joy” based on the “Ode to Joy” from Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9th Symphony.
For Life and Love
I wrote this hymn in 2002 for the wedding of Sara Struckmeyer (a photographer) and Chris Masson (a potter). I was inspired by the melody of the traditional folk song “The Water Is Wide.”
