Let Earth’s Inhabitants Rejoice
53

Text: William Clegg (1823–1903; LDS)
Music: Leroy J. Robertson (1896–1971; LDS)
Tune name: PLEASANT GROVE

Convert, missionary, pioneer, lifelong devoted Latter- day Saint— the many roles and experiences that were part of the life of William Clegg seem to be brought together in the joyous declamation of “Let Earth’s Inhabitants Rejoice.”

It is an unselfish hymn, focusing not just on the future rewards of faithful Saints but also on all children of our Father in Heaven—”earth’s inhabitants,” excluding no one. The “glorious hour” mentioned in verse one is the hour of the restoration of the gospel, when the words of a prophet begin to prepare the Saints, and through them the peoples of the earth, for the “blissful time . . . by holy men foretold” spoken of in verse two. The blessings will touch everyone during the “long millennial day” of justice, freedom, and love.

Leroy J. Robertson’s hymn tune is in the appealing and rhythmically simple style of a chorale. This tune “reflects in a joyous but noble manner,” commented J. Spencer Cornwall, “the message of the words which describe the glories of the millennial day when peace shall reign upon the earth. The hymn’s straightforward style makes it useful for any service or on any occasion where this subject is treated” (Stories of Our Mormon Hymns, 105).

The town of Pleasant Grove, Utah, is the source of the tune name. Leroy J. Robertson lived in Pleasant Grove while attending high school, and he later met his wife there when both were teachers at Pleasant Grove High School. The tune was first published in Hymns (1948), accompanying a text that had first appeared in 1863.