The author, William Orcutt Cushing, was a minister of the Christian Church and served congregations of that denomination in various cities in New York State. Towards the close of his life, however, he joined the Methodist church. He is the author of more than 300 hymns of the gospel song type. _MUSIC._ JEWELS. For comments on the composer of this tune, George F. Root, see Hymn 418. 433. From yon distant heaven _W. Hey_, 1789-1854 _Tr. J. R. Thierstein_, 1867-1941 Aus dem Himmel ferne, Wo die Englein sind, Schaut doch Gott so gerne Her auf jedes Kind. Höret seine Bitte Treu bei Tag und Nacht, Nimmt’s bei jedem Schritte Väterlich in Acht. Gibt mit Vaterhänden Ihm sein Täglich Brot Hilft an allen Enden Ihm aus Angst und Not. Sagt’s den Kindern allen Dass ein Vater ist, Dem sie wohlgefallen, Der sie nie vergisst. A popular song for children which appeared originally in the author’s _Noch 50 Fabeln für Kinder, nebst einem ernsthaften Anhang_, 1857. Wilhelm Hey was born in Laucha, near Gotha, where he later became minister of the local parish. He received his education at Jena and Göttingen Universities and became a well-known writer, minister, and teacher. His stories for children and young people were widely read. As a minister he was especially helpful to the poor and sick in the parishes he served, and took much interest in the distribution of Bibles where needed. The translation was made by John R. Thierstein, Ph.D., Professor of German and French, Bethel College, North Newton, Kansas. Dr. Thierstein was born in Bowil, Bern, Switzerland. In addition to his work as college professor, he served the church for a time as editor of _The Mennonite_, and at the time of his death he was chairman of the Board of Publications of the General Conference of Mennonites, a position he held for some years. In the latter capacity it became his duty to see the _Mennonite Hymnary_, 1940, through the press, a responsibility he discharged with efficiency and enthusiasm. _MUSIC._ AUS DEM HIMMEL FERNE. For comments on this tune see Hymn 421. 434. Lo! the heavens are breaking _Anonymous_ A spring song, setting forth the love and goodness of God. Both words and melody are anonymous. 435. Can a little child like me _Ascribed to Mary Mapes Dodge_, 1831-1905 A children’s hymn of thanksgiving. Mary Mapes Dodge, to whom the poem is ascribed, wrote stories and poetry for children. _Hans Brinker of the Silver Skates_ is her best-known work. She was also first editor of _St. Nicholas_ magazine. No information has been traced concerning the composer of the tune, W. K. Basswood. Words and music were taken from _The Hymnary_, Toronto, 1930, published by the United Church of Canada. MISSIONS