Category: General

Come Holy Spirit

Albert W. T. Orsborn, affectionately known as “the poet general,” was the sixth leader (general) of The Salvation Army. His leadership spanned the aftermath of World War II (1946-1954), and he played a pivotal role in the organization’s becoming a founding member of the World Council of Churches in 19481.

Orsborn was not only a leader but also a prolific poet and hymn writer. One of his best-known hymns is “My Life Must Be Christ’s Broken Bread.” His poetic expressions often reflected deep spiritual themes and a desire for holiness.

As for the specific hymn “Come, Holy Spirit, and Abide with Me,” I apologize, but I couldn’t find detailed information about its origins or the story behind it. However, it’s a beautiful prayer that invites the Holy Spirit to dwell with us.

Music by Edward Elgar 1857 – 1934

Albert W.T Osborn

Albert Orsborn (4 September 1886 – 4 February 1967) was the 6th General of The Salvation Army (1946-1954).

Born Albert William Thomas Orsborn, he became an Officer of The Salvation Army in 1905. Albert served as a Corps Officer and in divisional work in the British Territory of the Army. In 1909, he married his first wife, Captain Evalina Barker.

In 1925, he was sent to serve as Chief Side Officer at the International Training College. In 1933, he was farewelled to New Zealand as Chief Secretary. He then became Territorial Commander of Scotland and Ireland in 1936. In 1940, he became British Commissioner.

Albert Orsborn’s first wife, Captain Evalina Barker, died in 1942. This was a very hard time for him. Two years later, in 1944, he married his second wife, Major Evelyn Berry. They were married for just a year when she died.

In 1946, the High Council of The Salvation Army elected Albert to become the General of The Salvation Army. He married his third wife, Commissioner Mrs Phillis Taylor (a daughter of General Higgins), in 1947.

General Orsborn served as General for eight years. He was the author of The House of My Pilgrimage. He retired on 30 June 1954.

General Albert Orsborn died at the age of 80 years and 5 months.

Throughout the course of his Salvation Army life Albert wrote many wonderful songs and books.

One of the songs he wrote was In the secret of thy presence