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Hymns We Sing
A series of articles about well-
by Frank White
No 2 -
Words Henry Francis Lyte (1793-
This hymn is certainly one of the most popular of hymns and is to be found in the hymnals of most Christian denominations. Written by H.F.Lyte just before his death in 1847 & completed
on the same day as his last sermon to the congregation of his parish church “All Saints” in Lower Brixham, Devonshire. His text for this hymn is taken from the account of Christ`s appearance with the two disciples on the way to Emmaus and their statement “Abide with us: for it is toward evening and the day is far spent” (Luke 24:29)
As Lyte`s health became progressively worse with tuberculosis and asthma he was advised to seek a warmer climate in Italy. On his way to Rome he was overtaken by death at Nice, France and was buried there in the English Cemetery of the Holy Trinity Church .
This hymn was sung at the wedding of King George VI as it was one of his favourite Hymns and also sung at the wedding of his daughter Queen Elizabeth II, it was alos loved by Mahatma Gandi. and, for some unknown reason, is also sung at the FA Cup Final that marks the end of the English soccer season.
Nearly all hymnals print 5 verses but the original version had 8,-
Not a brief glance I beg, a passing word;
But as Thou dwell`st with Thy disciples, Lord,
Familiar, condescending, patient, free,
Come not to sojourn, but abide with me.
Come not in terrors, as the King of kings,
But kind and good, with healing in Thy wings,
Tears for all woes, a heart for every plea
Come Friend of sinners, and abide with me.
Thou on my head in early youth didst smile;
And though rebellious and perverse meanwhile,
Thou hast not left me, oft as I left Thee,
On to the close, O Lord, abide with me.
Did you know ?
Probably the most prolific hymnist was Frances Jane (Fanny) Crosby (1820-
One of her many hymns we know “To God be the Glory, great things he hath done” –was written under one of her many names Frances van Alstyne