THE STORY BEHIND "FOR ALL THE SAINTS" “For All the Saints Who From Their Labors Rest” was written in 1864 by William Walsham How (1823–1897), an Anglican bishop remembered for his humility and his deep compassion for the poor. Known as “the poor man’s bishop”, he spent much of his ministry among the working class in the industrial areas of East London. When he wrote this hymn, his purpose was to celebrate All Saints’ Day, not just for the famous saints of history, but for all believers, the quie