Birth and Setting (December 19, 1944)

Andrew Robert Culverwell was born on December 19, 1944, as a war-weary world looked toward peace and rebuilding. In many churches, that season sharpened the longing for steady hope, and hymnody remained a trusted means of teaching and comfort. Culverwell would later serve that same need by writing songs that put enduring gospel truths into words ordinary worshipers could readily sing and remember.

Calling Through Sacred Songwriting

Culverwell’s work reflects a conviction that Christian music is not mere sentiment, but testimony—truth carried by melody into congregations, family rooms, and daily routines. His songwriting illustrates a quiet kind of heroism: persevering faithfulness in a ministry that often goes unnoticed, yet shapes what believers confess together week after week.

Songs of New Life and Confession

Among his widely sung favorites is “Born Again,” a title that directs attention to the miracle of conversion and the Lord’s power to make sinners new. Scripture speaks plainly: “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17). Culverwell’s gift was not novelty but clarity—simple phrases that help a church say out loud what it believes, echoing the call to open confession and settled trust in the risen Christ.

A Christmas Witness: ‘Come On, Ring Those Bells’

Culverwell also wrote the Christmas classic “Come On, Ring Those Bells,” a song that invites bold, joyful announcement rather than private admiration. The carol-like energy fits church programs, candlelight services, and neighborhood gatherings, urging believers to share good news instead of hiding it. The angel’s message frames the season: “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the City of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!’” (Luke 2:10–11).

Legacy in the Church

Culverwell helped give congregations memorable language for the gospel: new life through Jesus and confident celebration of His coming. His catalog encourages courage, gratitude, and reverent joy—reminding believers that faith is meant to be confessed, sung, and carried into the world as a living witness to Christ.