This poignant hymn, with music by Kevin G. Pace and text by Evan Stephens, expresses deep longing and love for one's homeland. Through rich imagery of foreign lands, fair flowers, and mighty rivers, the hymn contrasts the grandeur of distant places with the quiet, heartfelt beauty of a beloved mountain home. Despite the allure of the world beyond, the singer’s soul remains tethered to familiar valleys, gentle streams, and peaceful hamlets. With tender emotion, the hymn becomes a prayerful tribute, capturing the timeless yearning for the place where one’s heart truly belongs.

Watch on YouTube: O Home Beloved, Where'er I Wander

Text:

1.O home beloved, where'er I wander, 

On foreign land or distant sea,

As time rolls by my heart grows fonder

And yearns more lovingly for thee!

Though fair be nature's scenes around me,

And friends are ever kind and true,

Though joyous mirth and song surround me,

My heart, my soul still yearn for you.

2.The flowers around me may be fairer

Than those than bloom upon the hills;

The streams, great, mighty treasure bearers,

More noted may be than thy rills;

No world renown my humble village

Like these great towns may proudly claim,

Yet my fond heart doth thrill with rapture

Whene'er I hear thy humble name.

3.Ye valleys fair and snowcapped mountains, 

Ye peaceful hamlets 'mid the trees,

Ye murmuring streams and crystal fountains,

Kissed by the cool, soft, balmy breeze,

Words cannot tell how well I love thee

Nor speak my longing when I roam.

My heart alone can cry to heaven,

"God bless my own dear mountain home."