Oscar Ahnfelt

Oscar Ahnfelt (1813-1882) was a Swedish preacher, composer, and singer who is considered a pioneer of Swedish gospel music. He's often called the "Swedish Moody" after the famous American evangelist Dwight L. Moody. Ahnfelt traveled extensively throughout Sweden, holding revival meetings and singing his heartfelt hymns, many of which he wrote himself. He set many popular hymns to new melodies and introduced the use of the guitar in Swedish church services, which was pretty radical at the time. His music and preaching had a profound impact on Swedish religious life in the 19th century.

Ahnfelt's songs are still sung today, and many are considered classics of Swedish hymnody. He wrote simple, melodic tunes that were easy for people to learn and sing along to, which helped spread his message of faith far and wide. Some of his best-known hymns include "Blott en dag" (Day by Day), which you might recognize from its English translation, and "Tänk, när en gång" (When Once the Clouds are Parted). He left a lasting legacy on Swedish Christian music, paving the way for future generations of gospel artists.

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