Words:                William Whiting. 1825-1878

Music:                 John B. Dykes. 1823-1876

 

         “They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; these see the works of the Lord, and His wonders in the deep.” Psalm 107:23-24 KJV

         Most people know this hymn as, “The Navy Hymn.” The original title given by the author was “For Those At Sea.” It was first published in the 1861 edition of the now famous Anglican hymnal, “Hymns Ancient and Modern.” For thirty-five years Whiting was headmaster at the Winchester College Choristers School. Robert Spencer added verse two and three to include all travelers. It is usually thought that text is based on Psalm 107.

         John B. Dykes wrote the music and named the tune, “Melita,” where Paul was shipwrecked (Acts 28:1). You might hear this hymn at a State funeral. On November 24, 1963, as the body of the late President John F. Kennedy was borne up the steps of the Capital Building to lie in state in the rotunda, this hymn was played by the Navy band. The next day, the Marine band played it again at the conclusion of the burial service at Arlington National Cemetery.

         Prayer Focus: Hear us when we cry to thee, Eternal Father, Christ, Most Holy Spirit-O Trinity of Love and Power.

 

-From “A Hymn A Day.” By Graham McKay

Graham lives in Spring Hill, TN