John Henry Hopkins Jr
1820–1891 · USA · Classical
John Henry Hopkins Jr. (1820-1891) was an American Episcopal clergyman, author, and hymnist who made significant contributions to Protestant church music and hymnody. Serving as rector of Christ Church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, Hopkins composed both hymn texts and melodies that enriched the Episcopal hymnal tradition. He is best known for authoring the carol "We Three Kings of Orient Are" (1857), one of the most enduring American Christmas hymns. Hopkins' work bridged popular accessibility with theological depth, establishing him as a key figure in nineteenth-century American sacred music. His compositions remain widely sung in churches today, reflecting the lasting impact of his contributions to Christian hymnody.
Hymn Texts (17)
- O Light Whose Splendor Thrills and Gladdens
- We Three Kings
- We Three Kings of Orient Are
- Soldiers of the Cross Arise
- Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus
- Forgive Us, Lord, for Shallow Thankfulness
- No Saint on Earth Lives Life to Self Alone
- Taste and See
- As We Gather at Your Table
- Herald, Sound the Note of Judgment
- My Soul Proclaims Your Greatness
- Thine the Amen, Thine the Praise
- We Place Upon Your Table Lord
- Fruitful Trees, the Spirit's Sowing
- My Soul in Stillness Waits
- O Christ, Who Called the Twelve
- We Praise the Christ for Martyred Saints