Edwin Hatch
1835–1889 · England · Romantic
Edwin Hatch (1835-1889) was an English theologian and hymn writer who served as fellow and later vice-principal of Oxford University. He was renowned for his scholarly contributions to the study of early church history and the development of Christian doctrine, which informed his theological approach to hymnody. Hatch authored several notable hymns characterized by their introspective, devotional quality and theological depth, including the beloved eucharistic hymn 'Breathe on me, Breath of God.' His works combined scholarly rigor with pastoral sensitivity, reflecting the High Church Anglican tradition. Through both his academic writings and his hymnic compositions, Hatch exercised significant influence on Victorian-era religious thought and worship practice.