Frances R. Havergal, 1836-79
“A Worker’s Prayer” is Miss Havergal’s title of this hymn and the text associated with it is Rom. 14:7: “None of us liveth to himself and no one dieth to himself.” It was composed April 28, 1872, at Winterdyne.
For comments on Frances Havergal see [Hymn 126].
MUSIC. CANONBURY, a favorite tune found in nearly all hymn books, is from Robert Schumann’s Nachtstücke, Op. 23.
Robert Schumann, 1810-56, greatest of the early German Romantics, was born in Zwickau, Saxony. He wrote symphonies and chamber music but is known best for his amazingly fine piano works and songs. His wife, Clara Wieck Schumann, one of the greatest piano players the world has produced, was devoted to him, as were also his children. Schumann became mentally ill, attempted unsuccessfully to drown himself in the Rhine, and was cared for in a hospital for two years before his death. He had a gift for journalism and wrote books and magazine articles on music.
297. Thou who Thyself didst sanctify
George Rawson, 1807-89
An appropriate hymn for use in ordination to the Christian ministry or dedication to other forms of Christian service.
George Rawson, an English Congregational layman, was born at Leeds where he practiced law many years. He had a considerable knowledge of music and was a gifted hymn writer. He rendered valuable assistance to his own denomination as well as to the Baptists in the preparation of hymn books for use in the church. A shy, retiring man, of sincere piety, he at first published his hymns, a considerable collection, anonymously, but later had to acknowledge his identity. About 50 of his hymns are still in use.
(The name is misspelled “Dawson” in the Hymnary.)