Ray Palmer, who held pastorates at Bath, Me., and Albany, N. Y., was for a time corresponding secretary for the American Congregational Union. His name remains the greatest among hymnists and translators in the American Congregational church. His hymn, “My faith looks up to Thee” ([150]), is known all over the world.
MUSIC. MALVERN is from The Hallelujah, a series of compilations of tunes, edited by J. J. Waite and H. J. Gauntlett, first published in 1842. The work was intended to encourage the congregation to sing in parts, an altogether novel principle in the English churches of that time. To make the music easy to read, the notes were numbered, the tonic sol-fa system having, as yet, not been developed. The present arrangement is by John Roberts, 1822-77, Welsh Methodist pastor and musician of extraordinary ability. He did much to improve congregational singing in the church and was an eminent conductor of school music festivals. Roberts wrote a number of tunes that are high in favor throughout Wales and was incomparable as an arranger of congregational hymn tunes.
132. Lord God, the Holy Ghost
James Montgomery, 1771-1854
One of the few hymns which deals distinctively with the Day of Pentecost. For this reason, as well as for its inherent quality, it is especially valuable.
For comments on James Montgomery see [Hymn 62].
MUSIC. OLD 134TH. For comments on this tune see [Hymn 128].
133. Spirit of God, descend upon my heart
George Croly, 1780-1860
Based on Gal. 5:25: “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”