Evans, Jonathan

Author

b Coventry, Warwicks (W Midlands) 1748/9, d Foleshill, nr Coventry (W Midlands) 1809. His first job was in a ribbon factory; cf the entries for both Gadsby and Tersteegen. At the age of about 30 he turned from a pleasure-seeking life when he was converted at the W Orchard Chapel in Coventry. The preacher was its pastor George Burden, a hymnwriter, hymn-book editor (1784) and founder member with Haweis (qv) of the London Missionary Soc which came to be led by Congregationalists. When some 4 years later Evans too sensed a call to preach, he obtained a building in nearby Foleshill and began a ministry there in spite of much opposition. The chapel was rebuilt on a larger scale in 1795. His position was formally ratified by his ordination in 1799. He served the Congregational church there for the remaining decade of his life. Some of his hymns first appeared in the Evangelical Magazine; as with many other such writers, one hymn has secured his enduring place in many hymnals. No.419.

Hymns and songs by Evans, Jonathan

Number Hymn Name
419 Hark! The voice of love and mercy