JESUS LOVES THE LITTLE CHILDREN

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1900.


“Jesus Loves the Little Children” – History of the Hymn

“Jesus Loves the Little Children” is one of the most beloved children’s hymns in Christian tradition. Its simple message of love, unity, and equality has made it popular in churches and Sunday schools for over a century.

✍️ Author

The lyrics were written by Clare Herbert Woolston (1856–1927), a Baptist pastor and evangelist.

  • Woolston is said to have written the song around 1900.

  • According to tradition, he composed it for a children’s program or to support the message of missionary work.

  • The song was first published in a collection of children’s gospel songs.

🎵 Tune

The melody most commonly used for the hymn is called “Tramp! Tramp! Tramp!”, composed by George F. Root in 1864.

  • Root originally wrote the tune for a Civil War song titled “Tramp! Tramp! Tramp! (The Prisoner’s Hope).”

  • Later, the melody was adapted for several hymns, including “Jesus Loves the Little Children.”

🌍 Message and Impact

The original well-known verse reads:

Jesus loves the little children,
All the children of the world;
Red and yellow, black and white,
They are precious in His sight;
Jesus loves the little children of the world.

The hymn emphasizes:

  • God’s love for all children

  • The value and dignity of every race and nation

  • Christian missionary outreach

🕊 Cultural Changes

In recent decades, some churches have revised the line “Red and yellow, black and white” to more culturally sensitive language (such as “every color, every race”), reflecting evolving awareness about racial terminology.

📖 Why It Endures

  • Easy for children to memorize

  • Strong biblical foundation (especially echoing Mark 10:14)

  • Emphasizes inclusiveness and love

Today, it remains a staple in Sunday schools, Vacation Bible Schools, and children’s worship services around the world.

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