Hymn Writers of the Church

Brooks, Phillips, a bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church, was born in Boston December 13, 1835; graduated at Harvard College in 1855, and then attended the Episcopal School of Theology, at Alexandria, Va. He was ordained in 1859, and became the rector of the Church of the Advent, in Philadelphia. In 1869 he became the rector of Trinity Church, Boston. This church was on Summer Street; but the great fire of 1872 destroyed it, and a 395 new church was erected in Copley Square. He was greatly beloved by his people, and his fame and influence were widely spread. In 1891 he was elected Bishop of Massachusetts, but he did not long serve in this Position. He died January 23, 1893. Bishop Brooks was a great soul in a gigantic body. He made friends of all with whom he came in contact. His influence was positive, strong, and good. Besides the carol in this book, he wrote at least four Christmas and two Easter carols, all of which are very fine.