Look, Ye Saints, the Sight Is Glorious

Author – Thomas Kelly (1769–1854)
Composer – William H. Monk (1823–1889)
Tune Name – “Coronae”
Meter – 8.1.8.1
Scripture Reference – Revelation 15:3–4: “Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy...” (KJV)

The hymn “Praise the Savior, Ye Who Know Him” is widely acknowledged as one of the finest English-language hymns celebrating Christ’s ascension and reign. Though often associated with Ascension Sunday—the Sunday following the actual feast day, which falls forty days after Easter—it has broader devotional and theological application. Written in 1806 by the distinguished Irish preacher and hymn writer Thomas Kelly, the text was originally titled “The Second Advent” and first appeared in his Hymns on Various Passages of Scripture. Rich in evangelical fervor, it exalts the person and work of Jesus Christ, calling worshipers to joyful praise, confident trust, and complete devotion. With lines such as “Who can tell how much we owe Him?” and “Jesus is the name that charms us,” the hymn expresses both theological depth and heartfelt gratitude for Christ’s saving grace and sovereign care.

Thomas Kelly was a towering figure in 19th-century Irish religious life. Born in Dublin on July 13, 1769, the son of a prominent judge, Kelly was originally destined for a career in law and entered Trinity College, Dublin, with that intention. However, during his university years, he experienced a powerful spiritual awakening that redirected his life toward Christian ministry. He was ordained into the Anglican Church in 1792, but his strong evangelical preaching—especially his emphasis on justification by faith—soon led to tensions with the Church hierarchy. Eventually dismissed from Anglican ministry for his doctrinal views, Kelly joined the ranks of the Dissenters, aligning himself with the Congregational tradition. He became a widely respected preacher, beloved pastor, and prolific author. Over the course of his lifetime, he wrote an astounding 765 hymns, many of which were published in multiple hymnals he personally edited. In addition to his literary and theological gifts, Kelly was known for his generosity and compassion, especially during times of hardship. During the Great Famine in Dublin in 1847, his support of the suffering won him lasting affection from the people, as seen in the oft-repeated saying, “There’s always Mr. Kelly to pull us out of the bog, after we’ve sunk for the last time.”

The tune “Coronae” was composed specifically for Kelly’s text in 1871 by William H. Monk, one of the foremost musicians of the Anglican tradition. Born in London in 1823, Monk served as organist, choirmaster, and composer, but he is perhaps best remembered for his work as the music editor of the monumental hymnal Hymns Ancient and Modern. This influential collection helped to shape Anglican hymnody throughout the 19th century. Monk's compositions are known for their deep emotional resonance and elegant structure, and “Coronae” is no exception. Designed to be sung with vitality and spiritual energy, the tune provides a triumphant, confident setting for Kelly’s words. Monk also composed the beloved melodies for “Abide With Me” and “The Strife Is O’er,” and his influence endures in congregational worship across the English-speaking world.

“Praise the Savior, Ye Who Know Him” remains a powerful hymn of joyful devotion, summoning believers to reflect on Christ’s redemptive work and to respond in heartfelt praise and surrender. It combines the theological precision of a scripturally anchored hymn with the warmth and accessibility of personal testimony. Each stanza builds on the last, moving from thanksgiving for salvation, to trust in Christ’s sustaining grace, to final surrender of one’s life: “Gladly let us render to Him / All we are and have.” With its strong Christ-centered focus, rhythmic strength, and singable melody, this hymn continues to edify and inspire worshipers, offering a timeless call to honor the risen and reigning Savior. Through the combined work of Kelly’s poetic devotion and Monk’s musical brilliance, the hymn serves as a treasured reminder of Christ’s lordship and our ongoing life of praise.