Benjamin Beddome

Benjamin Beddome was an English Baptist minister and hymn writer whose texts were widely used in eighteenth century Baptist worship. Born in Henley in Arden England, he was the son of Baptist minister John Beddome and grew up in a strong religious environment. After receiving theological training he became pastor of the Baptist church in Bourton on the Water where he served faithfully for more than fifty years. Beddome wrote many hymns for use in weekly worship services and often introduced a new hymn to his congregation after each sermon. His hymns emphasized themes such as repentance, divine grace, and the believer trust in Christ. Several of his texts were later included in important Baptist hymn collections. Beddome contributions helped strengthen the tradition of congregational hymn singing within Baptist churches during the evangelical revival period.