One of the most popular...
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One of the most popular hymns is "Amazing Grace" by John Newton who lived almost 300 years ago. Born in London, he went to sea with his father. Before he was 20, he was in the British Royal Navy. After serving on a slave ship, he became a captain, transporting black Africans to port where they could be sold for the best price.
In 1748, Newton was caught in a storm at sea and felt a deep spiritual awakening. Later he left the sea. At age 40, he was ordained in the Church of England, despite his lack of formal education. In 1782 he became the minister of the St. Mary Woonoth Church in London, where he remained until his death 25 years later.
Newton was writing of his spiritual experience when he wrote his to-be-famous hymn, including this line: "I once was blind, but now I see."
In 1748, Newton was caught in a storm at sea and felt a deep spiritual awakening. Later he left the sea. At age 40, he was ordained in the Church of England, despite his lack of formal education. In 1782 he became the minister of the St. Mary Woonoth Church in London, where he remained until his death 25 years later.
Newton was writing of his spiritual experience when he wrote his to-be-famous hymn, including this line: "I once was blind, but now I see."
