Originally published in Premier Christian News
Canadian Christian singer, songwriter and worship leader Brian Doerksen has died after a short battle with stage 4 cancer at the age of 60.
Doerksen was one of the most influential worship songwriters in the world. His songs, including ‘Refiner’s fire’, ‘Come, now is the time to worship’ and ‘Faithful one ‘, have been sung in churches around the world for decades.
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In a statement shared on his official Instagram account on Tuesday, his family announced his death and thanked the global Christian community for prayers and support throughout his illness.
“On July 21st, at 6:45AM, our beloved Brian passed away peacefully in his sleep at his family home, surrounded by those who loved him most,” the statement said.
The family expressed gratitude for the “entire community around the world that prayed, gave, and sent incredible messages of love”.
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On Saturday, Doerksen’s family revealed that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer after dealing with undiagnosed medical issues for months. They said doctors were still working to determine the specific type of cancer. On Tuesday, just hours before announcing his death, another update revealed that his kidneys had failed.
“Till the very end, Brian continued to love those around him, encouraging them in who they are, and shared incredible gratitude to those in the medical field who tried their best to help him,” the statement said.
“He was a beacon of light even in his final moments to his close family and friends, and loved well right to the end.”
Tributes quickly poured in from worship leaders across the world, many thanking Doerksen for writing songs that helped shape their worship and deepen their faith.
Tim Hughes commented: “So deeply gutted by this. I always loved the times I got with Brian. He wrote my all time favourite worship song ‘Faithful One.’ He wrote so many other songs I LOVED. He was always such an encouragement to me personally. Brian you’ll be deeply missed but your legacy run long. Praying for God’s comfort and peace.”
Paul Baloche said: “Goodbye, Friend. Love you, Brian. Will miss you on this earth. As you reminded us, ‘One day every tongue will confess you are God. One day every knee will bow. Still the greatest treasure remains for those who gladly choose you now.’
“I will never forget your generous hospitality around the family table, writing songs together in your Shining Rose studio, and ministering together on several tours across Canada. You taught me much about lament through your words, your songs, and your life. Thank you for Refiner’s Fire, Light The Fire Again, and a hundred more songs that pointed us all to Jesus. Until we meet again.”
Darlene Zschech added: “So sad to wake up to this news. What a hero of the faith! Praying over your families .. and so grateful to all of them for sharing you with us all.”
Doerksen is survived by his wife and six children.
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