Hymn #53: Glorious Is Your Name, O Jesus | First Congregational Church

Robert J. Fryson (1944-1994) wrote this text in 1982, and it was included in Lead Me, Guide Me (1987), the African American Catholic hymnal produced G.I.A. Publications. Note that the final phrase is repeated a second time. The hymn may appropriately be sung over and over if a congregation chooses.

Robert J. Fryson, born in Raleigh, North Carolina, received an undergraduate degree in vocal music education from Virginia State University, a master’s degree from Catholic University of America, and a doctorate from Howard University. He was a life member of the National Association of Negro Musicians.

Robert J. Fryson composed this setting in 1982 to accompany his own text. It is named GLORIOUS IS YOUR NAME for the opening phrase. Fryson performed the song on “The First Hymnal on a New Shelf” (a video produced prior to the hymnal’s publication) and died shortly thereafter.

Robert J. Fryson was director and founder of a sacred music group, the Voices Supreme. This male ensemble has released many albums. In addition, Fryson’s hymns have been recorded by James Cleveland, Aretha Franklin, Albertina Walker, and the National Youth Massed Choir.