Faith of My Fathers: a faith anthem for a time like now by Joel Michael Herbert
Joel Michael Herbert has written a song that is a bold and heartfelt cry for a deeper, truer kind of faith—one that rejects the oppressive legacies of religious misuse and embraces a liberating, justice-seeking spirituality rooted in love.
It contrasts the distorted “faith of our fathers” that has been weaponized to harm, exclude, and dominate, with a yearning for a faith embodied by biblical and historical figures who acted with courage, compassion, and prophetic truth. Each verse lifts up the voices of the overlooked—women, immigrants, the marginalized—casting them as heroes of faith whose examples shine with resilience and radical love.
The song weaves together ancient stories and modern cries for justice, culminating in a longing to embody the self-giving love of Jesus—the love that lifts the lowly, casts out fear, and brings dead things back to life. It’s a protest hymn, a healing prayer, and a rallying anthem for anyone who believes that faith should liberate, not chain.
Faith of My Fathers Vocalists
Joel Michael Herbert
Dani Rocca
Flamy Grant
Listen
Faith of My Fathers by Joel Michael Herbert
Experience the Song: Video Gallery
Official "Faith of My Fathers" Lyric Video
The Story Behind the Song
Our song was born from a deep desire to address the pressing issues of our time. Inspired by the struggles and triumphs of our community, it serves as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. The lyrics reflect our commitment to social justice, echoing the voices of those who seek equality and peace. Through this song, we aim to inspire listeners to join us in our mission to create a more inclusive and compassionate world.
Crafted with passion and purpose, the song’s melody and words were carefully chosen to resonate with the hearts of many. It tells a story of resilience and unity, drawing from the rich tapestry of experiences within our community. Each verse is a testament to the power of collective action and the enduring spirit of those who fight for a better tomorrow.
As you listen, we invite you to reflect on your own journey and consider how you can contribute to the movement. Together, we can amplify the message of love and justice, ensuring that our song reaches every corner of the globe.
A Big Life Conversation with Ray Waters and Joel Michael Herbert
Lyrics and Chord Chart
Faith of My Fathers
Verse 1
I don’t want the faith of my fathers
That bombs, segregates, and enslaves
That uses scripture as a weapon
If you’re a woman, immigrant, or gay
I don’t want the faith of my mothers
Silent while men hang from a tree
I see in Christ a clear reflection
A love beyond our wildest dreams
Pre-Chorus
Do justly
Love mercy
Walk humbly with your God
Chorus 1
I want the Faith of Moses
The Kind that sets the captives free
I want the faith of Naomi
Lifting the ones who are weak
I want the Faith of Mary
Holding the mystery deep inside
But most of all I want the faith
Of Jesus and his grace
Turning darkness into light
Verse 2
Down through the ages we’ve seen it
Religion turning into hate
Becoming a partner for violence
To war and steal and take and take
But when I read of the God of love
Who rescues even enemies
There’s something in me that rises up
Come be that hope in me
Chorus 2
I want the faith of Joseph
Forgiving those who do me wrong
I want the faith of Hannah
Turning my grieving into song
I want the faith of Deborah
Leading a nation out of shame
But most of all I wanna run
To see your kingdom come
Rolling the stone of death away
Bridge
Do justly
Love mercy
Walk humbly with your God
Chorus 3
I want the faith of Esther
Confronting hate, not backing down
I want the faith of Tamar
The Courage to speak the truth to power
I want the faith of Hagar
Naming the God who sees and hears
But Most of all I want to be
Like the one who died for me
The Love that’s casting out all fear
Chorus 4
I want the faith of Martin
Naming the Dream as though it was
I may not get there with you
But I know that we shall overcome
I want the faith of Malcolm and Mamie
That demands we face and see the truth
But most of all I want to be
Like Jesus was for me
The hope that’s making all things new
Tag
But most of all I want to be
Like the One who died for me
The Love that’s making all things new
Help #FaithofMyFathers Go Viral
Join us spread the word about the song. Here’s how you can help “Faith of My Fathers” reach every corner of the globe.
1
Share on Social Media
Post the song on your Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Use hashtags to increase visibility and connect with others.
Spread the Word
Help us amplify the song’s message by sharing it with your network. Every share brings us closer to a world united in harmony. Click the button to share the song on your favorite platform and be a part of something bigger.
2
Create a Video
Make a short video of yourself singing or dancing to the song. Share it on TikTok or YouTube to engage with a wider audience.
3
Tag Friends and Family
Encourage your friends and family to listen and share. Tag them in your posts to spread the love and message further.