Final answer:
English hymn writers such as Issac Watts, William Cowper, and Charles Wesley significantly influenced religious worship with their compositions, particularly notable in the practice of 'lining-out hymns', where congregations would echo hymns line by line in the absence of hymnbooks or widespread literacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
English Hymn Writers and Their Hymns
During the eighteenth and nineteenth century, as the gospel was spread by Baptist, Methodist, and Presbyterian missionaries, English hymn writers played a crucial role in the religious worship of both white communities and African American slave communities. Among these writers, Issac Watts is a prominent figure whose hymns were so influential that lined-out hymns in black churches were often referred to as “Dr. Watts.” This practice involved a leader reciting lines from a hymn, which the congregation would then sing, a necessity due to the lack of printed hymnbooks or literacy among the people.
Notable English hymn writers along with Issac Watts include William Cowper and Charles Wesley. Cowper is known for hymns such as “There is a Fountain Filled with Blood,” while the Wesley brothers, Charles and John, known for founding Methodism, contributed numerous hymns like “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today.” An example of a hymn by Issac Watts is “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.” These hymns are still sung by choirs and congregations across the world, showcasing the lasting impact of these hymn writers.”