Pass It On

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 1969

🎵 “Pass It On” – History of the Hymn

“Pass It On” is a popular contemporary Christian hymn written in 1969 by Kurt Kaiser, a well-known composer associated with the youth music movement of the late 1960s and 1970s.

✍️ Background & Composition

Kurt Kaiser wrote Pass It On during a time of spiritual renewal among young Christians in America. The late 1960s saw the rise of informal, guitar-based worship music connected with youth ministries and the Jesus Movement.

The song was originally part of a youth musical collection titled Tell It Like It Is, published by Word Music. Its simple melody and warm, conversational lyrics made it especially popular among youth choirs and church camps.

🎶 Theme & Message

The hymn uses the metaphor of lighting a candle to describe how Christian faith spreads from person to person:

“It only takes a spark
To get a fire going…”

The message emphasizes:

  • Personal faith

  • Evangelism through example

  • Sharing God’s love naturally and joyfully

Its tone is gentle and optimistic, reflecting the era’s emphasis on personal testimony and relational faith-sharing.

🌍 Popularity & Global Reach

“Pass It On” quickly spread beyond the United States and became widely used in:

  • Church worship services

  • Youth retreats and camps

  • Evangelistic meetings

  • International mission gatherings

It has been translated into multiple languages and is included in numerous hymnals worldwide.

📖 Legacy

The song remains a staple in many churches, particularly in:

  • Youth-focused worship

  • Campfire-style gatherings

  • Informal services

Kurt Kaiser’s work, including Pass It On, helped shape modern evangelical worship music and paved the way for today’s contemporary Christian music movement.

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