Once It Was the Blessing (Himself)

Albert Benjamin Simpson (1843–1919), commonly known as A. B. Simpson, was a Canadian preacher, theologian, hymn writer, author, and the founder of The Christian and Missionary Alliance (C&MA), an evangelical denomination with a strong emphasis on global evangelism and Christ-centered doctrine. He was born on December 15, 1843, in Bayview, near Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, Canada, the fourth child of James Simpson Jr. and Janet Clark. Raised in a strict Scottish Presbyterian tradition, Simpson’s early spiritual life was shaped by fervent devotion and familial influence. His own conversion came during the rise of revival movements in the mid-nineteenth century under the preaching of Irish evangelist Henry Grattan Guinness, and this experience set the course for his lifelong ministry.

Simpson studied theology at Knox College in Toronto, graduating with a divinity degree in 1865, and was ordained soon afterward in the Presbyterian Church. His first pastorate in Hamilton, Ontario, and later pastoral work in Louisville and New York exposed him to the needs of both urban and rural ministry. In New York City his heart was increasingly drawn to evangelism, especially among immigrants and the spiritually unchurched. As a result he pioneered a ministry focused on reaching the lost and perishing with the gospel of Christ. 

In 1887 Simpson formally founded The Christian and Missionary Alliance, a movement defined by its Fourfold Gospel emphasis: Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King. This theological vision influenced many twentieth-century evangelical movements and denominations. Simpson was also a prolific writer, authoring more than one hundred books, numerous articles, and over one hundred hymn texts that reflect his theological convictions and missionary zeal.

Many of his hymns, such as “The Missionary Cry”, “I Will Say Yes to Jesus”, and “Once It Was the Blessing”, express deep love for Christ, personal commitment to discipleship, and a passion for world evangelism. Simpson continued in active ministry until failing health forced his retirement in 1918, and he died on October 29, 1919. His legacy endures in the worldwide Christian and Missionary Alliance, in hymns still sung in many churches, and in global missions rooted in Christ’s love and commission to all nations.