HYMN OF THEÂ MONTH:
Holy Spirit, Light Divine
by Andrew Reed, 1787-1862
Our theme for 2025 is "We Believe" and we're exploring core biblical doctrines we can pass to the next generation using hymns as a teaching tool. This month we're concluding our look at The Trinity and specifically at the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Godhead.Â
On a Mission
Andrew Reed, the author of Holy Spirit, Light Divine, wasn’t just an English-born hymn writer—he was a man on a mission!
Originally trained as a watchmaker in his family’s business, he soon realized his true calling wasn’t fixing timepieces but ministry and philanthropy.
He became a pastor at 24 and spent over 50 years preaching, writing, and tirelessly helping those in need.
Reed wrote nearly 20 hymns, many of which expressed his deep faith and desire for spiritual renewal.
Holy Spirit, Light Divine remains his most well-known hymn and is a heartfelt prayer for the presence of God’s Spirit.
Through the Holy Spirit’s leading, Reed founded multiple charities, including the London Orphan Asylum and what is now known as The Royal Hospital for Neurological-Disabilities in Surrey, London.
Andrew Reed’s heart and work for people caught the attention of many famous people including Charles Dickens who helped raise funds for the hospital. He even caught Yale’s attention, earning an honorary Doctor of Divinity during a trip to the U.S.
When singing and reflecting through our hymn this month, let’s remember that when we follow the Holy Spirit’s leading, our lives will shine before God and the world, pointing others to the light of the gospel.
Read & Relate
Holy Spirit, Light Divine
Andrew Reed, 1787-1862
 Holy Spirit, Light divine,
Shine upon this heart of mine;
Chase the shades of night away,
Turn my darkness into day.
1 Cor. 2:9-10; 1 Cor. 2:12; Luke 11:13; 1 John 1:5
Holy Spirit, Power divine
Cleanse this guilty heart of mine;
Long hath sin without control
Held dominion o'er my soul.
Romans 6:14; Romans 8:11; 1 Cor. 6:11; 2 Cor. 3:18
Holy Spirit, Joy divine,
Cheer this saddened heart of mine;
Bid my many woes depart,
Heal my wounded, bleeding heart.
Ps. 51:12; Rom. 14:17; Acts 13:52; Rom. 8:26-27
Holy Spirit, all divine,
Dwell within this heart of mine;
Cast down every idol throne,
Reign supreme, and reign alone.
John 14:26; Rom. 5:5; 1 Cor. 3:16; Gal. 5:22-23Â
