Michael Alfred Baughen (b. 1930)

The Rt Revd Michael Alfred Baughen was an Anglican clergyman and composer, born in Borehamwood, in Hertfordshire he went on to become Church of England Bishop of Chester from 1982 – 1996.

He was educated at Ravensbourne School in Bromley, Bromley County Grammar School and the University of London before attending Oak Hill Theological College.

He served as Rector of Holy Trinity, Rusholme, Manchester and at All Souls, Langham Place in London before tenure as the 39th Bishop of Chester.
After retirement, he has worked as an honorary assistant bishop in the Diocese of London and in the Diocese of Southwark.

Baughen is well-known for his hymn writing, particularly for his tune “Lord of the Years” for Timothy Dudley-Smith. He was also editor of and writer and composer for Youth Praise (Book 1, 1964, and Book 2, 1969) and Psalm Praise (1973), and for Hymns for Today’s Church (Jubilate Hymns, 1982), for which he was consultant editor and contributor, and as Editorial Chairman of Sing Glory (2000).