The Enduring Legacy Of "On Eagles' Wings": Why Michael Joncas' Hymn Still Soars Today

The timeless Christian hymn "On Eagles' Wings" continues to experience a surge in relevance, nearly five decades after its creation, with its powerful message of comfort resonating deeply in the current global climate. Originally conceived in 1976 as a source of solace for a grieving family, the song has transcended its Catholic origins to become a universal anthem of hope, protection, and divine providence, cementing its place as one of the most recognized pieces of liturgical music in the world. As of December 12, 2025, its composer, Father Michael Joncas, remains an influential figure, even in retirement, with his work inspiring new covers and discussions about the role of faith-based music in public life. The enduring popularity of this hymn is not just a testament to its beautiful melody but also to the profound scriptural foundation that speaks directly to the human need for shelter and strength during times of distress, making it a constant feature in both private moments of grief and major public events.

Father Michael Joncas: Composer, Theologian, and Biographer

The man behind the iconic hymn is Jan Michael Joncas, a Catholic priest, liturgical theologian, and composer whose work has profoundly shaped contemporary Catholic music.

Biography and Profile

• Full Name: Jan Michael Joncas
• Born: December 21, 1951
• Place of Birth: United States
• Vocation: Catholic Priest (Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis)
• Education: Attended the University of Notre Dame (MA in Liturgical Studies)
• Primary Role: Liturgical Theologian and Composer
• Most Famous Work: "On Eagle's Wings" (1976)
• Other Notable Works: "Shelter Me," "Salve Regina" (from O God of Past and Present)
• Career Highlight: Served as a faculty member at the University of St. Thomas, where he taught extra classes and graduate courses.
• Current Status: Retired from the St. Thomas faculty, but continues to compose and present workshops.

Father Joncas composed "On Eagle's Wings" in 1976 for the funeral of his friend's father. The composition was intended as a gift of comfort for the family during their wake. This act of personal ministry quickly evolved into a global phenomenon, becoming a staple in hymnals across various denominations.

The Scriptural Roots and Profound Meaning of the Hymn

The powerful lyrics of "On Eagles' Wings" are not based on a single verse but are a masterful synthesis of several profound scriptural passages, primarily from the Old Testament.

Inspiration from Psalm 91

The central theme of the hymn is drawn heavily from Psalm 91, a passage known for its messages of divine protection and refuge. Key phrases in the song directly echo the psalm's imagery of God as a shelter and protector. The lyrics, "You need not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day," are a direct paraphrase of the psalm's promises. The psalm speaks of being covered by God's feathers and finding refuge under His wings, which is the foundational imagery for the song's title and refrain.

The Influence of Isaiah 40:31

The title itself, and the soaring, uplifting feel of the music, is inspired by a passage in the Book of Isaiah. The verse, "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint," provides the famous "on eagles' wings" metaphor. This imagery transforms the song from a simple lament into an affirmation of renewed strength and hope through faith.

A Message of Providence and Shelter

The hymn praises the "uplifting presence of the Lord" in our lives. It has become a beloved choice for funerals because it offers a message of God’s providence, assuring the bereaved that their loved one is now safe in the hands of the divine. The emotional power of the refrain, "And He will raise you up on eagle's wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of His hand," speaks to a feeling of ultimate peace and spiritual transition.

The Modern Resurgence and Cultural Impact

Despite being decades old, "On Eagles' Wings" continues to find new audiences and experience spikes in popularity, proving its staying power in the contemporary cultural landscape.

The Political Spotlight and Viral Moment

A significant recent boost in the hymn's profile occurred during a major political event. In November 2020, then President-elect Joe Biden quoted the hymn in his victory speech, stating that the song was a favorite of his late son, Beau Biden. This moment put the hymn back into the national spotlight, leading to a surge in searches and renewed interest in the song and its composer. Father Joncas was reportedly surprised and humbled by the attention, noting how the hymn has taken on a life far beyond its original Catholic hymnal pages.

New Renditions and Musical Interpretations

The song's simple, melodic structure makes it highly adaptable, leading to a host of modern covers that keep the music fresh and accessible to new generations. Contemporary artists have shared new renditions on platforms like YouTube, ranging from soothing acoustic covers to jazz-influenced piano arrangements. An Irish singer's cover, for example, highlights the hymn's Catholic roots while showcasing its universal appeal. These new versions demonstrate that the hymn's message is not confined to traditional church settings but can be expressed through various musical genres.

The Funeral Hymn Discussion

While widely accepted and cherished, there is an ongoing theological discussion about the hymn's suitability for funerals. Some liturgical purists argue that the song, while beautiful, focuses too much on the individual's journey to heaven and less on the community's grief or the central mystery of Christ's passion. However, many others, including theologians, argue that because the hymn is based on Psalm 91 and Isaiah 40:31, it is fundamentally scriptural and therefore appropriate. This debate underscores the song's profound impact and the serious consideration given to its text within the context of Catholic and Christian liturgy.

Topical Entities and LSI Keywords

The depth and breadth of "On Eagles' Wings" are supported by numerous related entities and concepts that contribute to its topical authority:

• Psalm 91 (The primary scriptural source)
• Isaiah 40:31 (Source of the 'eagles' wings' metaphor)
• Liturgical Music (The genre of the composition)
• Catholic Hymn (Its origin and primary context)
• Funeral Song (Its most common use)
• Michael Joncas (The composer)
• Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis (Joncas's diocese)
• University of Notre Dame (Joncas's alma mater)
• University of St. Thomas (Where Joncas taught)
• Joe Biden (The public figure who quoted the hymn)
• Contemporary Christian Music (The broader genre)
• OCP (Oregon Catholic Press, a major publisher of his music)
• Shelter Me (One of Joncas's other notable hymns)
• Divine Providence (The core theological theme)
• Hymnody (The study of hymns)

"On Eagles' Wings" is more than just a hymn; it is a cultural landmark. Its simple, moving melody and scripturally rich lyrics have provided comfort to millions during their darkest hours. From its humble origins at a friend's wake to being quoted on the world stage, the song has proven to be an enduring source of strength and a powerful reminder of God's unwavering promise of shelter and hope. Its continued presence in new covers and public discourse ensures that the message of soaring on eagle's wings will continue to resonate for generations to come.