Preachers and Evangelists |
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In an age of long sermons, preachers that were really good became famous celebrities, travelling the country and attracting huge crowds to their services. Perhaps the most famous Victorian preacher of them all was Charles Haddon Spurgeon. Born 19th June 1834, Spurgeon was just twenty-four when he started as pastor of a big London Baptist Chapel and quickly became a sensation. He talked about the joys and worries of ordinary people and about how Jesus could help. He used stories to keep people interested, spoke with power and had a great sense of humour. When his church building became too small for the crowds he hired a big London music hall that seated up to 10,000 people and filled it! In the days before microphones and amplifiers preachers needed a very loud voice! |
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Charles Haddon Spurgeon |
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On Wednesday June 18th 1873, the American Evangelist Dwight Lyman Moody arrived in England for the very first time to start a big U.K. evangelistic preaching tour - and no one was expecting him! Despite this, his humble background and (horrors!) American drawl, crowds soon flocked to hear him. His friend Sankey sang new Christian songs that quickly became best sellers and then Moody preached. His messages were simple, full of powerful stories and direct. Many people became committed Christians after listening to him, from Oxford dons to the poorest labourer. |
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D. L. Moody |
Evangelists from almost all Christian denominations were part of life in Victorian Britain. You might see a 'Gospel Caravan'covered with Bible texts travelling the villages, hear a preacher in the park or street, or visit a 'campaign' meeting in a chapel or big marquee. These people were Evangelical Christians who believed that people could have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ if they chose to believe and follow Him. |
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Bible texts on the roof of this church can be seen from all over the city. |
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The Victorian Way of Death |