386 OUR HYMNS I
quently he became pastor of the Church assembling at the Old Meeting, Halstead, Essex, which charge he was compelled to resign in March, 1865, in consequence of indisposition. He is not the author of any volume of poems, but has contributed some fugitive pieces to magazines.
ROBERT MURRAY McCHEYNE.
18131843.
LIKE the course of the falling star that after delighting us for a moment, seems to hasten quickly away to some more congenial sphere, so was the brief but beautiful career of this eminent servant of God. Born in Edinburgh, McCheyne studied with great success in the University there, and was adjudged the prize for a poem on the "Covenanters." Favoured by the good influ ence of Dr. Chalmers, and devoting himself to works of Christian usefulness, his piety ripened and his Christian character was developed.
In 1836, he was ordained a minister of the Presbyterian Church, and became pastor of St. Peter s, Dundee. There he became a popular preacher and a beloved pastor, and amidst the various engagements of his laborious pastorate he found time to write tracts and hymns.
In 1839, in consequence of the failure of his health, he joined with several eminent ministers in taking an extended tour in the East. The special object of this journey was to investigate the condition of the Jews. After his return, his labours soon termi nated in a triumphant death. His eminent piety, great useful ness, and early death have encircled his name with a lasting halo.
His sole contribution to the " New Congregational Hymn Book" is hymn No. 575
"When this passing world is done."
It is an appropriate expression, as it is a memorial of the heavenly mindedness in which he lived on earth preparing for heaven, and by which he encouraged many to follow him.
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