465. O happy day, that fixed my choice
Philip Doddridge, 1702-51
This hymn, reflecting spiritual joy, is often used at baptismal services and is also one of the best revival hymns. It is based on II Chron. 15:15: “And all Judah rejoiced at the oath; for they had sworn with all their heart, and sought him with their whole desire; ... and the Lord gave them rest round about.”
The original title was “Rejoicing in our covenant engagements to God.” It was published in 1819, by the author’s great-grandson, John Doddridge Humphreys.
The hymn was chosen by Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria, to be sung always on occasions when members of the royal family were confirmed. It reflects a deep and rich experience of God. “Blessed is the man,” says James Montgomery, “who can take the words of the hymn and make them his own from similar experience.”
For comments on Philip Doddridge see [Hymn 56].
MUSIC. HAPPY DAY is an adaptation from a work by E. F. Rimbault, 1816-76, a London scholar, musician and writer. He became organist at Swiss Church, Soho, London, and was offered, but declined, the chair of professor of music at Harvard University. The tune was originally a popular secular melody. The English Hymnary uses this hymn set to a tune called “Heaton Norris,” with refrain omitted.
466. Sinners Jesus will receive
Arr. from Erdmann Neumeister, 1671-1756
Tr. Emma Frances Beaven, 1827-1909