Charlotte Elliott facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charlotte Elliott
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| Born | 18 March 1789 Brighton, England |
| Died | 22 September 1871 (aged 82) Brighton, England |
| Resting place | St Andrew's Church, Hove |
| Occupation | poet, hymn writer, editor |
| Language | English |
| Nationality | British |
| Notable works | "Just As I Am"; "Thy will be done" |
| Relatives | Henry Venn, Edward Bishop Elliott |
Charlotte Elliott (born March 18, 1789 – died September 22, 1871) was an English poet and writer of hymns. She also worked as an editor. She is most famous for two well-known hymns: "Just As I Am" and "Thy Will Be Done."
Even though she grew up in a Christian family, Charlotte sometimes had doubts. She wrote "Just As I Am, without one plea" in 1836. This hymn shared her feelings about Jesus loving her just as she was. William B. Bradbury later wrote music for her words in 1849. This hymn became very popular and was translated into many languages. It helped many people find faith.
Charlotte also edited The Invalid's Hymn Book in 1854. She added 112 of her own hymns to this collection. She also edited the Christian Remembrancer Pocket Book for many years. Charlotte wrote other books too, like Hymns for a Week and Hours of Sorrow. She was often ill for many years, but she still did many good deeds. She preferred to stay out of the spotlight, so most of her books were published without her name.
Contents
Early Life and Family
Charlotte Elliott was born on March 18, 1789, in Brighton, England. Her family was very religious and well-educated. Her grandfather, Rev. Henry Venn, was a famous minister. He helped start a religious movement called "The Great Awakening" in Great Britain.
Charlotte's parents were Charles Elliott and Eling Venn. Charlotte was one of six children. Her brothers, Henry Venn Elliott and Edward Bishop Elliott, also became ministers. Henry Venn Elliott founded St Mary's Hall in Brighton.
Charlotte grew up in a refined and religious home. She loved music and art from a young age. She often felt she wasn't good enough for God. Pastors told her to pray more and study the Bible more.
Finding Her Faith and Writing Hymns
Charlotte lived in Clapham for the first 32 years of her life. When she was young, she was good at drawing portraits and writing funny poems. She enjoyed social events where religion wasn't discussed.
However, in 1821, she became very sick. This illness made her think about her life and her need for a personal Savior. Around this time, a minister named Dr. Cesar Malan visited her family. He asked Charlotte if she felt at peace with God. At first, she didn't want to talk about it.
A few days later, Charlotte apologized to Dr. Malan. She told him she wanted to make her life perfect before becoming a Christian. Dr. Malan told her, "Come just as you are." On that day, May 9, 1822, Charlotte decided to commit her life to Christ. She later called this day "the birthday of her soul."
Charlotte's health improved after a trip to France in 1823. But in 1829, she became ill again and was often helpless. In 1833, her father passed away.
In 1834, Charlotte started editing The Christian Remembrancer Pocket Book. She edited this yearly book for 25 years, and many of her poems appeared in it. In 1836, she also took over editing The Invalid's Hymn Book. She added 115 of her own hymns to this book, including her famous "Just as I am, without one plea." She also published Hours of Sorrow Cheered and Comforted in 1836.
Later Life and Legacy
Charlotte Elliott was a member of the Church of England. In her later years, she was often too sick to go to church. She once wrote, "My Bible is my church. It is always open, and there is my High Priest ever waiting to receive me."
A book of her Poems was published in 1863. Her brother Henry died that same year. In 1869, she became very ill but recovered. Charlotte Elliott passed away in Brighton on September 22, 1871. She was buried next to her brothers at St Andrew's Church, Hove.
Charlotte Elliott's hymns continue to be sung around the world. Her message of coming to faith "just as you are" has inspired countless people.
Images for kids
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The hymn, "Just As I Am", with music by William Batchelder Bradbury
See also
In Spanish: Charlotte Elliott (poeta) para niños
