MUSIC. REGENT SQUARE. For comments on this tune see [Hymn 81].
BOOK II
Hymns for Children
403. A gladsome hymn of praise we sing
Ambrose N. Blatchford, 1842-1924
Written by the pastor of the Lewin’s Mead Unitarian Church, Bristol, England, for use in a Sunday school anniversary, 1876, in his church. The hymn is suitable for adults as well as for children.
Ambrose N. Blatchford, born in Devonshire, England, was educated at Tavistock Grammar School and Manchester New College, London. After serving as assistant minister at Lewin’s Mead Unitarian Church for ten years, he took full charge in 1876 and continued until his retirement in 1915, an unusual record of nearly 50 years of service in one church. He was a man of sympathy with all classes of people, possessed unusual vitality, and was a trusted friend and pastor. Blatchford was interested in the life and progress of the community and became one of the most influential and most-loved men in the city.
MUSIC. CANAAN. The tune was taken from the Hymnary of the United Church of Canada. The composer is unknown. It is a good, fluent melody constructed on a straightforward melodic line which is repeated three times.
404. Children of Jerusalem
John Henley, 1800-42
A children’s hymn of praise, based on Matthew 21:15-16: