Credit: Suite101.com

Pr. Weedon reports that Rev. Dr. Jaroslav J. Vajda finally sleeps in God’s peace.

Rev. Vajda came to prominence as a hymn writer with his hymn “Now the Silence,” which first appeared in Worship Supplement (CPH, 1969). His hymns and translations biblically rooted and rich in imagery number more than 200 and can be found in nearly 50 hymnals of various Christian denominations worldwide. In recognition of his significant contributions to the world of Christian hymnody, Pastor Vajda was named a Fellow of The Hymn Society in the United States and Canada. He also received an honorary doctorate degree from his alma mater, Concordia Seminary – Saint Louis, in 2007.

When I sung in my church choir in Kansas City, our director and accompanist couldn’t get enough of his works. I distinctly remember “See This Wonder in the Making” (LSB 593) and “Go, My Children, With My Blessing” (LSB 922) before LSB came out with the songs included. When my twins were baptized, my family performed “Wonder” during the service.