Joseph Scriven

About

Nineteenth-century Irish poet who is best remembered for "What a Friend We Have in Jesus," a verse that was set to music as a popular hymn.

Before Fame

He attended Trinity College, Dublin and later immigrated to Canada.

Trivia

His romantic life was marked by tragedy: his first fiancee drowned on the eve of their wedding, and his second wife-to-be died of pneumonia.

Family Life

He was born into a wealthy family in Banbridge, Ireland.

Associated With

John Tesh performed a cover of Scriven's poem-turned-hymn, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus."