Jack Hayford

Jack Hayford was an American pastor, author and hymn writer, best known outside church leadership circles for composing the widely sung worship hymn «Majesty», one of the most performed contemporary Christian hymns of the late twentieth century. He served for decades as the senior pastor of a large congregation in Southern California and became an influential figure in charismatic and Pentecostal Christianity.

As a songwriter, Hayford’s style sits within the tradition of modern hymnody: simple, declarative melodies paired with lyrics of praise and worship intended for congregational singing rather than commercial pop performance. «Majesty» has been recorded and performed by countless choirs, worship bands and gospel artists over the decades, cementing his place in the history of contemporary worship music alongside songs like «All Heaven Declares» and «I Want to Be Where You Are», which are also associated with his catalogue and repertoire.

Beyond songwriting, Hayford was known as a prolific author of Christian books and a teacher whose influence extended well beyond his own church, shaping worship music practice in many Protestant and Pentecostal congregations worldwide.