Handbook to the Mennonite Hymnary

by Lester Hostetler

334. We have heard the joyful sound

Priscilla Jane Owens, 1829—c. 99

A missionary hymn written for the anniversary of a Sunday school in Baltimore in which the author had been a worker for many years.

Priscilla Jane Owens, of Scottish and Welsh descent, was born and died in Baltimore where she was a public school teacher and an untiring worker in the Sunday school. Most of her hymns were written for children’s services.

MUSIC. JESUS SAVES was composed by William J. Kirkpatrick, 1838-1921, a native of Duncannon, Pa. He was a regimental musician during the Civil War and was skilled as an organist, gospel singer, and composer, and was editor and publisher of gospel songs.