119. Look, ye saints, the sight is glorious
Thomas Kelly, 1769-1854
A majestic coronation hymn ranking with the best hymns of Watts and Wesley. It is based on Rev. 11:15: “The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ. And he shall reign forever and ever.”
Thomas Kelly was born in Dublin, the son of an Irish judge. He at first intended to follow his father into the legal profession, but his profound religious convictions led him to train for the ministry. As a young clergyman, he was summoned, with others, to appear before the Archbishop of Dublin to answer for his evangelistic zeal. He was rebuked and prohibited from preaching in Dublin pulpits. He then withdrew from the Church of England and started a number of independent churches. He was much interested in the hymnody of the church and wrote 736 hymns in all. They are characterized by loyalty to Jesus Christ and a deep evangelical glow.
MUSIC. CORONAE is a virile tune, written in 1871, and well adapted by its voice range for congregational singing.
For comments on the composer, Wm. H. Monk, see [Hymn 40].