Charitie Lees Smith

Charitie Lees Smith, later widely known as Charitie Lees Bancroft, was a respected Irish hymn writer whose works have had a lasting place in Christian worship. She was born on June 21, 1841, at Bloomfield, Merrion, in County Dublin, Ireland. She was the daughter of the Rev. Sidney Smith, a clergyman who served as Rector of Drumragh in County Tyrone, which placed her in a strong Christian and literary environment from an early age.

Her hymns first appeared in various periodicals and collections, including Lyra Britannica and Bishop J. C. Ryle’s Spiritual Songs. In 1867, a collection of her hymns was published under the title Within the Veil, further establishing her contribution to devotional literature.

Among her most enduring hymns is “Before the Throne of God Above,” written in 1863. This hymn is especially valued for its rich theological focus on Christ as the believer’s advocate, reflecting truths found in passages such as Hebrews 4:14-16 and 1 John 2:1. Its message of assurance and intercession has made it a favorite in many hymnals and worship settings across generations.

Another well-known hymn is “The King of Glory Standeth,” which presents Christ as the Savior who comes in humility and sacrifice. Additionally, her children’s hymn “O for a Robe of Whiteness,” first published in 1860, became widely used for its simple yet powerful expression of longing for purity and heaven.

In 1869, she married Arthur E. Bancroft, after which she became known as Charitie Lees Bancroft. Later in life, after being widowed, she remarried and was also known as Charitie de Chenez (or de Cheney). She eventually moved to the United States and died in Oakland, California, in 1923 at the age of 82.

Her hymn writing is marked by deep doctrinal clarity, especially concerning salvation, Christ’s intercession, and the believer’s standing before God. Though she did not produce a vast number of hymns, those she wrote have endured due to their strong biblical foundation and devotional depth.

In summary, Charitie Lees Smith left a lasting legacy through hymns that continue to strengthen faith and direct believers to the finished work and ongoing ministry of Jesus Christ.