For comments on the author, John Ellerton, see [Hymn 43].
MUSIC. FRANCONIA. For comments on this tune see [Hymn 205].
288. Break Thou the bread of life
Mary A. Lathbury, 1841-1913
This gem, entitled, “Study Song,” was written for the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle and for Bible Study groups, but it also has a wider use. Dr. G. Campbell Morgan used this hymn every Sunday for many years immediately before the sermon. It is not a communion hymn although it is often used for that purpose. The breaking of bread refers to the feeding of the multitude beside the Sea of Galilee and not to the Last Supper; and the “bread of life” is the teaching of Jesus.
For comments on Mary Lathbury see [Hymn 31].
MUSIC. BREAD OF LIFE is a popular American tune, sincere and simple in style, written for this hymn and indissolubly associated with it.
For comments on the composer, William F. Sherwin, see [Hymn 31].