Maltbie D. Babcock, 1858-1901
The original has sixteen stanzas, each beginning with the words “This is my Father’s world,” a good slogan to begin and end the day. It appeared in the author’s Thoughts for Every Day Living, a book of religious verse. The hymn expresses a confident attitude toward life and a buoyant faith in God.
Maltbie D. Babcock, prominent Presbyterian minister, was born in Syracuse, New York, graduated from Syracuse University and Auburn Seminary and then began his first pastorate at the First Presbyterian Church, Lockport, N. Y. His second pastorate was at Brown Memorial Church, Baltimore, where he was popular with the students at Johns Hopkins University. He then received a call to the Brick Church, New York City, where he became the successor of Henry van Dyke. In his student days he was known as a fine student, a great athlete, a good musician, and a friend to all. He loved young people and during his ministry they turned to him for counsel.
MUSIC. The tune TERRA BEATA is simple, light in movement, and easy to sing. It was composed by Franklin Sheppard, 1852-1930, a Philadelphia business man, Presbyterian layman, and friend of Dr. Babcock. Sheppard was also an accomplished musician. He modestly attributed the tune to an old English folk melody, but it is known now that he himself was the composer. He named the tune “Terra Beata,” happy or blessed earth.
The arrangement in the Hymnary, known as “Terra Patris,” is by Edward Shippen Barnes, a contemporary American organist and composer. His harmonization is a little more difficult to sing but also more interesting than the original by Sheppard.
49. Let the whole creation cry
Stopford A. Brooke, 1832-1916
The hymn is an imitation of Psalm 148. It is a universal call to praise rather than an expression of praise, hence it is addressed not to God but to his creation everywhere, as a call to worship God. The hymn is characterized by literary grace, simplicity, and tenderness, and is included in many modern hymnals.
Stopford A. Brooke, born in Ireland, was educated at Dublin, then became a clergyman in the Anglican Church. For a time he was one of the most popular preachers in London. In 1880, being restive under the doctrinal standards of the church, he severed his relation with the Anglicans and continued a ministry of preaching and lecturing and writing as an independent, not associated with any denomination. His Life and Letters of F. W. Robertson ranks among the classic biographies. In 1881, he compiled Christian Hymns for use in his own congregation, in which this hymn is found, the original having ten stanzas.
MUSIC. ROLAND is an easy, flowing tune which congregations love to sing after learning it well. It is suitable for use as a processional. The composer, Caleb Simmer, born 1856, was an American musician. His sacred pieces include anthems, quartets, cantatas, and organ music.