Moreover, John Newton (1725-1807), whatever his theology (he was, in fact, a Calvinist) could very well have been referring solely or primarily to himself in the lyrics, in using the word "wretch," since it is well-known that he had been involved in the slave trade and had numerous other exceptionally unsavory personal traits (see Wikipedia: "Amazing Grace"). It is commonly thought, anyway, that he had himself in mind.
RE: Written by a Protestant for Protestants. It is not a Catholic song.
Interesting. I saw the song in the Catholic hymn book in the pews at St. Patrick’s Church in NYC.
The song has been there for decades. I wonder why the Cardinals and bishops did not object to it...
You mean like Jonah, Abraham, or King David (just to name a few)?
Curious, what songs/hymns do you find acceptable? What do you sing?