Graham Kendrick

Graham Kendrick (b. 1950) is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the modern worship movement within the United Kingdom and across the global Church. Born in Northamptonshire, England, the son of a Baptist minister, his upbringing in the parsonage deeply influenced his theological grounding and his commitment to congregational singing. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has transitioned from a folk-oriented singer-songwriter to a premier hymn writer, releasing nearly forty albums and penning hundreds of songs that bridge the gap between contemporary choruses and traditional hymnody.

Beyond his musical compositions, Kendrick is a significant figure in ecumenical mobilization. In 1987, he co-founded the March for Jesus, a movement that encouraged Christians to take their faith into the public square through prayer and song. This initiative grew from a local London event into a worldwide phenomenon, involving millions of participants across hundreds of nations. His work with the March for Jesus highlighted his belief that worship should not be confined to church buildings but should serve as a visible witness to the community.

Kendrick’s ministry is also marked by a profound commitment to social justice and humanitarian aid. He has been a long-standing advocate for Compassion International, focusing on the holistic development of children living in poverty. He was also a key contributor to CompassionArt, a collaborative project where songwriters dedicated their royalties to various relief efforts. In recognition of his theological contributions and impact on global worship, he has received honorary doctorates from Brunel University and Wycliffe College, as well as a Dove Award for his international work.