Father, hear Thy children's call

“Father, Hear Thy Children’s Call” is a thoughtful and penitential hymn written by Thomas Benson Pollock in 1860. Pollock, an English Anglican priest and hymn translator, devoted much of his ministry to creating hymns suitable for liturgical use. This hymn first appeared in Hymns Ancient and Modern, where it was included among prayers of confession and renewal. Its purpose is to bring believers into a spirit of humility as they approach God with sincere repentance.

The hymn speaks to the deep need of the human soul for cleansing and restoration. It reflects the tone of Psalm 86, where the psalmist pleads, “Bow down thine ear, O Lord, hear me. For I am poor and needy.” Pollock draws from this biblical tradition of crying out to a compassionate Father who hears the prayers of His children. Psalm 103:13 further supports the theme, noting that the Lord pities His children with tenderness and care. The hymn gently leads the singer to confess sin, acknowledge weakness, and seek renewed fellowship with God.

Pollock’s language is marked by simplicity and reverence. Each stanza moves the believer from confession toward renewed dedication. It presents a cycle that mirrors the Christian walk, where believers continually turn from sin and return to the safety of their Father’s embrace. First John 1:9 beautifully aligns with this theme, promising that God is faithful and just to forgive and to cleanse from all unrighteousness. The hymn expresses this hopeful truth by assuring worshippers that God welcomes sincere repentance.

Over the years, the hymn has been used during Lent, communion preparation, and services focused on renewal of spiritual life. Its reflective tone allows congregations to quietly consider their need for God’s mercy. Although written in the nineteenth century, its message remains timeless. It speaks to every believer who longs for a clean heart, a restored walk, and a deeper awareness of the grace that only the Heavenly Father can provide.