The beloved hymn “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” has a touching and poignant backstory. It was written by Joseph Scriven, an Irishman who found solace and purpose in his faith during times of great sorrow.

Joseph Scriven was born in Ireland in 1819. He had wealth, education, and a pleasant life in his native country. However, tragedy struck when his fiancée drowned on the night before their scheduled wedding. In his deep sorrow, Joseph turned to his dearest friend, Jesus, for solace and support.

Shortly afterward, Scriven left Ireland and settled in Canada. There, he met and fell in love with Eliza Rice. Unfortunately, Eliza also fell ill and passed away just weeks before their planned wedding. Devastated, Scriven once again turned to his faith, finding comfort and purpose in prayer and Bible study.

Joseph Scriven made a dramatic change in his lifestyle. He took a vow of poverty, sold all his possessions, and dedicated his life to helping the physically handicapped and financially destitute. He became known as “The Good Samaritan of Port Hope.”

Ten years after Eliza’s death, Scriven received word that his mother was seriously ill in Ireland. Lacking the funds to travel home, he wrote her a comforting letter, enclosing the words of his newly written poem. He hoped these lines would remind her of the unwavering friend she had in Jesus.

The poem, originally titled “What is this Friendship for Which We Long?,” was never intended for public eyes. However, it was later set to music by Charles Crozat Converse in 1865, becoming the hymn we know today as “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” Its heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with people worldwide, reminding us of the unfailing friendship we find in Christ¹²³

• Faith
• Jesus
• Prayer
• Vow of Poverty