Andrew Reed

Short Name: Andrew Reed
Full Name: Reed, Andrew
Birth Year: 1787
Death Year: 1862

Andrew Reed, D.D., was an English Congregational minister, philanthropist, and hymn writer. Born in London on November 27, 1787, he was educated for the ministry at Hackney College. Reed served as pastor of the New Road Chapel, St. George's-in-the-East, and later the Wycliffe Chapel, which he helped build in 1830. His contributions to society extended beyond the pulpit: he founded multiple charitable institutions, including The London Orphan Asylum, The Asylum for Fatherless Children, The Asylum for Idiots, The Infant Orphan Asylum, and The Hospital for Incurables, which ensured his long-lasting legacy.

Reed’s hymnody began in 1817 with a Supplement to Watts, later expanded into The Hymn Book (1842), incorporating original works alongside selections from Watts and other authors. His hymns were plain, practical, and devotional, often reflecting prayer, praise, and spiritual guidance. Some of his best-known hymns include:

• “Ah, Jesus, let me hear Thy voice”

• “Spirit Divine, attend our prayer”

• “Come, my Redeemer, come”

• “Holy Spirit, Light divine”

Reed’s works were originally published anonymously in 1842 but were later credited to him and his wife in the Wycliffe Supplement (1872). His hymns, numbering at least 21 originals, remain in common usage, particularly for personal devotion, corporate worship, and missions. Reed died on February 25, 1862, leaving a legacy as both a spiritual leader and social reformer.