Saint Ephrem the Hymnist, 306–373

June 9

Saint Ephrem was a teacher and a poet, but he is best known for writing hymns. He wrote more than 400 hymns! He used the popular songs of his time, but changed the words to help people learn about Jesus and Mary and praise God. His hymns remind us how much God loves us and wants us to love him.

Discuss: How do you tell others how much God loves you?

Saint Ephrem the Hymnist lived near what is now the country of Syria. He was a teacher, a deacon, and a poet, but he is best known for writing hymns. He wrote more than 400! He used the popular songs of his time, but changed the words to help people learn about Jesus and Mary and praise God. His hymns remind us how much God loves us and wants us to love him. Even though Saint Ephrem lived a long, long time ago, people still know and sing the songs he wrote today.

Saint Ephrem is the patron of spiritual directors and spiritual leaders. He is called a Doctor of the Church, which means that the Church was influenced by his writings and work. He was also known for his care of the poor during times of famine. Ephrem is sometimes called “The Harp of the Holy Spirit.”

Activity

Write a Hymn
Musical; Verbal/Linguistic

Explain to the child that Saint Ephrem the Hymnist’s heart overflowed with love for God and he wrote down his feelings to praise God.

• Have the child write down their feelings for God.
• The child can look at Psalm 100 in a children’s Bible and read David’s style of praises.
• Find some of Saint Ephrem’s hymns to read aloud.
• Let the child be creative with their praise.
• If possible, let them make up a tune or use a familiar tune to sing their hymn.