If Papa Were Only Ready
No. 415 (with cover insert) from Sankey's Sacred Songs & Solos. Read the words (view large size) to get an insight to Amercian Evengelism of 100+ years ago.
Ira David Sankey was an Evanligist and Gospel singer in the revival period of the 1860s. Sankey's Hymns & Solos Collection (linked with the evangelist Moody) became the core material for American and British Congregational Revival Meetings. See here for more on Sankey.
The song was written by P.P. Bliss - one of his first apparently. Mr. Bliss' journey to heaven was somewhat dramatic and horrible. The child (assuming he is one of his) did not get their wish as papa & mama left them behind. If you have the stomach for a gruesome story, then read here.
Isn't the internet an amazing tool? - when I decided to use this song as a subject for a photo group "Heaven" assignment picture - I knew none of this.
This book was part of my brother's collection of antique hymn books, reminding me too that Simon is no longer walking this earth. Andrew.
Comments and faves
jcfh2001 (62 months ago | reply)
Amen, thanks for posting, the original Gospel Singer, thank the Lord for his collaboration with D.L. Moody.
jcfh2001 added this photo to his favorites. (61 months ago)