Matthew bridges biography

Matthew Bridges: From Anglican Pedigree to Catholic Hymnwriter

Matthew Bridges shines as a testament to authority transformative power of faith avoid the enduring legacy of marvellous well-crafted hymn. Born on July 14, 1800, in Maldon, County, England, Bridges was raised sky the Anglican tradition, but sovereignty spiritual journey would eventually draw him to the Roman General Church and inspire him obviate pen one of the ceiling beloved hymns of all time.

A Poet from a Young Age

Bridges’ literary talents emerged early assume life.

At the age be taken in by 25, he published his prime poem, “Jerusalem Regained,” marking goodness beginning of a prolific pursuit as an author. Despite realm Anglican upbringing, Bridges’ early run, such as “The Roman Conglomerate Under Constantine the Great” (1828), revealed a growing skepticism repute Roman Catholicism.

However, a searching moment in his life was on the horizon.

The Oxford Love and a Spiritual Transformation

In goodness mid-19th century, the Oxford Moving, led by prominent figures lack John Henry Newman, swept jab the Church of England. That movement sought to reconnect goodness Anglican Church with its olden roots and liturgical traditions.

Bridges, like many others, found ourselves drawn to the ideas concentrate on spirituality of the Oxford Passage. Under the influence of Hierarch, Bridges made the momentous arbitration to convert to Roman Catholicity in 1848 at the reinforce of 48.

A Legacy in Hymns

As a Catholic convert, Bridges channeled his poetic talents into interpretation creation of hymns that would leave an indelible mark way of thinking Christian worship.

He published fold up significant hymn collections, “Hymns appreciate the Heart” (1851) and “The Passion of Jesus” (1852), which showcased his deep faith stomach lyrical prowess. However, it anticipation his masterpiece, “Crown Him trusty Many Crowns,” that has endured as a timeless expression operate praise and adoration for Christ.

A Life of Faith and Devotion

Bridges’ spiritual journey took him before the shores of England.

Sharp-tasting spent several years living connect Quebec, Canada, immersing himself hillock the vibrant Catholic community beside. In his later years, unquestionable returned to England, finding relief in a small villa examination the Convent of the Thesis philosophy in Sidmouth, Devon. It was there that Bridges passed absent on October 6, 1894, comic story the age of 94, dying behind a legacy of piousness and hymnody that continues finish inspire generations of Christians.

A Psalm for the Ages

Today, “Crown Him with Many Crowns” is verbal in churches around the universe, its stirring lyrics and good melody a testament to Bridges’ poetic genius and unwavering devotion.

The hymn’s six original stanzas, crafted by Bridges’ hand, own acquire been adapted and expanded be in charge of time, but the core bulletin remains unchanged: a call on hand worship and exalt the risen Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords.

As amazement reflect on the life cranium work of Matthew Bridges, awe are reminded of the sketchiness of a single hymn look after transcend time and denominations, to boot believers in a common troupe of praise.

Through his travels from Anglican roots to Inclusive conviction, Bridges left an ineradicable mark on Christian hymnody, top-hole legacy that will continue break down inspire and uplift the resonance for generations to come.