Hymn #562: Take My Gifts | First Congregational Church

Shirley Erena Murray (b. 1931) wrote this hymn for use during a stewardship campaign in a local church. The text reminds Christians that their offerings, pledges, and gifts are in response to love already given by God, love that never can be fully repaid.

Shirley Erena Murray has written hymns, poems, and satirical songs. Her fame as a hymnist is spreading, and her work has been published in Australia, Great Britain, and the United States. She is editor and executive secretary of the New Zealand Hymnbook Trust.

Colin Gibson (b. 1933) composed this tune “almost instantaneously” when given the text, according to a report by Shirley Erena Murray. The tune is named TALAVERA TERRACE for the Wellington, New Zealand, street where Murray lives.

Colin Gibson has served for forty-five years as organist and choir director at Mornington Methodist Church in New Zealand. In addition, he serves as a lay preacher at Dunedin Methodist parish. Gibson has traveled extensively around the world giving workshops on hymn writing.