Remembering Brian Doerksen: The Worship Leader Who Gave Us “Come, Now Is the Time to Worship” Dies at 60

The Christian music world lost a true pioneer this week. Brian Doerksen, the Canadian worship leader whose songs have echoed through churches for over three decades, passed away on July 21 at his family home in Canada after a short battle with Stage 4 cancer. He was 60 years old. The Gospel Music Association confirmed that he died peacefully surrounded by his family, including his wife Joyce and their six children.

Doerksen’s impact on modern worship is hard to overstate. Songs like “Come, Now Is the Time to Worship,” “Refiner’s Fire,” and “Faithful One” became staples not just in contemporary services but in rural country churches and suburban congregations alike. His music had a way of making theology feel personal — like a conversation between you and God rather than a performance. He was diagnosed with cancer just weeks ago, and his family had asked for prayers. The Christian community responded in force, but Brian’s time on earth was complete.

His legacy, though, is far from over. Those songs will keep being sung every Sunday in small towns and big cities around the globe. As you go through your week, maybe take a moment to listen to “Come, Now Is the Time to Worship” with fresh ears. What’s the first Brian Doerksen song that comes to your mind? Share it with us in the comments — we’d love to remember him together.