We Ever Pray for Thee
23; 312

Text: Evan Stephens (1854—1930; LDS)
Music: Henry A. Tuckett (1852–1918; LDS); adapted by Evan Stephens
Tune name: SHADRACH

As a devoted Latter- day Saint, Evan Stephens was able to communicate in this beautiful hymn a feeling of reverence and love for the prophet who leads the Church. The words tell of the fervent, trusting prayers that are offered up on the prophet’s behalf, and the tranquil harmonies of the musical setting enhance this prayerful mood.

Evan Stephens wrote the words for “We Ever Pray for Thee” as a trio for girls’ voices in celebration of President Wilford Woodruff’s ninetieth birthday in 1897. His music is an adaptation of a hymn tune by Henry A. Tuckett, “Our Loving Savior Dear.” The arrangement for a trio of female voices was subsequently retained in Latter- day Saint hymnals.

The four- part congregational setting was arranged by Darwin Wolford for performance by the Mormon Youth Chorus and, via satellite, the Fayette New York Branch choir at the Sunday afternoon session of general conference on April 6, 1980. This conference commemorated the Church’s sesquicentennial, or 150th anniversary.

It may seem odd to some people that our hymnal would include a text that refers to our prophet’s advancing years and furrowed brow; however, the call to become prophet, seer, and revelator has invariably come after decades of devoted service; our prophets are men of seniority among the Lord’s servants. We love them for their willingness to assume this responsibility at an age when most other men choose a tranquil retirement.

The reference to “children’s prayer” in verse three is explained by the fact that a trio of girls’ voices originally performed this hymn. The entire hymn has a reverent feeling, almost a mood of solemn wonder, reflecting the adoration of a child for a beloved prophet. Adults, too, can sing these words with feeling, because we wish to obey and sustain our prophet with childlike devotion.