Faithful Friday: Reginald Heber

By Ian Wilson

There have been many hymn writers in the history of the Christian Church, but few have been as influential on church music as Reginald Heber. 

Heber was born on April 21st, 1783, to a wealthy and educated family, who were able to afford to give Reginald a good education. He was something of a child prodigy, translating Latin classics to English at only seven years old. He was a rather inquisitive youth, but had a modesty of manners that won the hearts of those he conversed with. Even as a boy, he was a great orator, and attracted the attention of local youths, who would often listen to him recite a ballad or a tale from the past. 

At seventeen, Heber entered Oxford to become a minister, where he won awards for his poetry. While at Oxford, he married Amelia Shipley, the granddaughter of a bishop, who proved to be the help-meet he needed in his ministry. Shortly thereafter, he became the rector of the obscure parish church of Hodnet, England. Here, he was known for his Christian conduct, and as a man who was always ready to serve the needs of his congregation. It was here that he began his great work of hymn writing. 

At the time, metrical Psalms and chants were the norm in the Church of England; hymns were highly discouraged. However, Reginald Heber was determined to put his talent for music and poetry to good use. He was very engaged in the music ministry of his church, and submitted many hymns for publication in the magazine The Christian Observer. His goal was to write a book of hymns corresponding to the church calendar; a project which was not completed until after his death. 

At forty years old, Heber was appointed Bishop of Calcutta, and directed his attention to the spiritual health of the East. He was no less enthusiastic in his ministry there than back in England, though the climate did little for his health. After a long outdoor service, in which Bishop Heber confirmed many native converts, he took a cold bath, where a servant discovered his body later, his spirit having gone to his eternal reward. His widow, Amelia, discovered his book of hymns and had them published. Among them were many popular hymns, including “Holy, Holy, Holy”. 

May we, like Heber, apply ourselves fully to the work of God.