Not Worthy, Lord, to Gather Up the Crumbs

Full Name: Edward Henry Bickersteth
Birth/Death: 1825–1906

Edward Henry Bickersteth, D.D., was born in January 1825 at Islington, England, the son of Edward Bickersteth, Sr. He was educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, earning a B.A. with honours in 1847 and an M.A. in 1850. Ordained in 1848, he served as curate of Banningham, Norfolk, and Christ Church, Tunbridge Wells. He became Rector of Hinton-Martell in 1852 and Vicar of Christ Church, Hampstead, in 1855. In 1885, he was appointed Dean of Gloucester and subsequently Bishop of Exeter, a position he held with distinction until his death.

Bickersteth was a prolific poet, author, and hymnodist. His works include Poems (1849), Water from the Well-spring (1852), The Rock of Ages (1858), and Yesterday, To-day, and For Ever (1867), among others. As an editor, he compiled several influential hymnals, including Psalms & Hymns (1858), The Hymnal Companion (1870), and its revised edition (1876), which achieved widespread use. He also contributed approximately 30 original hymns to the church repertoire, notable examples being Almighty Father, hear our cry, Peace, perfect peace, Rest in the Lord, and Till He come.

Bickersteth’s hymns are distinguished by their personal and devotional focus, often addressing the individual soul in its relationship with God rather than large congregations, though many are suitable for public worship. His writing combines poetic sensitivity, clear rhythm, and a soothing plaintiveness, which gives his hymns a distinctive and enduring character.

Edward Henry Bickersteth died in London on May 16, 1906, leaving a legacy of literary and spiritual influence in both poetry and hymnody.