Berridge, John, a clergyman of the Church
of England, was born in Nottinghamshire
March 1, 1716. He became Vicar of Everton
in 1755, and remained there until his
death, January 22, 1793. His preaching
was at first sadly lacking in spirituality;
but being happily converted, he became one
of the most earnest of the evangelical clergymen
who sympathized with and aided the
Methodist revival. Frequent allusions to
him are found in the writings of
John Wesley,
who esteemed him highly and found in
him a helpful coworker. He was never
married. In 1785 he published a volume of
hymns titled Zion's Songs. His "wedding
hymn," a prayer in song for the divine
blessing on the bridal couple, is the only
one of his three hundred and forty-two
hymns that finds a place in this collection:
| Since Jesus freely did appear |
667 |
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