F. A. Graves

F. A. Graves (1856–1927) was an American hymn writer and minister born in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Orphaned by the age of nine, he endured a difficult childhood, living on a farm where he was treated harshly. At age fourteen, he was diagnosed with epilepsy. At twenty-one, he moved to Nobles County, Minnesota, and experienced a cessation of his seizures, which inspired him to serve the American Sunday School Union as an organizer and evangelist.

Graves was deeply musical, and after the age of thirty-five, he composed forty-three songs. He studied Bible and music in Chicago, Illinois, and Northfield, Massachusetts. Influenced by evangelist John A. Dowie, he experienced permanent healing, which became a central theme in his gospel songwriting. In 1916, Graves was ordained as a minister in the Assemblies of God. He later settled in Zion Hill, Illinois, where he lived for the remainder of his life. His funeral in Zion City drew nearly a thousand attendees, reflecting the impact of his ministry and music.

Alongside his ministerial work, Graves was prolific in hymnody. Some of his well-known hymns include “O My Brother, Do You Know the Savior,” “What a Wonderful, Wonderful Savior,” “My Father Has Many Dear Children,” and “Hungry, Lord, for Thy Word of Truth.” His compositions have been published in English, German, Swahili, and Arabic, demonstrating both his reach and influence in global Christian worship. His hymns often emphasize personal devotion, the assurance of salvation, and the compassionate love of Christ, resonating with congregations around the world.