Scripture References:
st. 1-2 = Rom. 10:14
st. 3 = Rom. 10:15

In 1980 Michael A. Perry (PHH 299) wrote this text in Southhampton, England, for use at a tenth anniversary service for "Radio Solent," a celebration held in Winchester Cathedral in 1981. The text was first published in Hymns for Today's Church (1982).

Inspired by Romans 10:14-17, “How Shall They Hear” is a missions text. The first line of each stanza poses a question in the manner of the Pauline passage, and the final line a prayer that continues a personal commitment to be witnesses for Christ "with life and voice." That personal commitment is our answer to the questions posed earlier.

Liturgical Use
Services that promote missions and evangelism (during Epiphany and Pentecost seasons); ordination/ commissioning of missionaries; prayer meetings prior to evangelistic campaigns.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook