George Whitefield

Date of Birth: December 16, 1714

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: September 30, 1770

Biography

George Whitefield was an influential Anglican cleric and evangelist who played a significant role in the Great Awakening, a series of religious revivals that swept across Britain and the American colonies in the 18th century. Born in Gloucester, England, Whitefield was the youngest of seven children. He attended Pembroke College at Oxford University, where he became a member of the “Holy Club” alongside John and Charles Wesley. Whitefield was ordained in 1736 and quickly gained fame for his dramatic and passionate preaching style. He made several missionary journeys to the American colonies, where his open-air sermons attracted thousands of listeners. Whitefield’s efforts helped to spread Methodism, although he remained an Anglican throughout his life. He is remembered for his powerful oratory and his role in revitalizing Christian faith during his time.

5 Interesting Facts about George Whitefield

1. George Whitefield preached over 18,000 sermons during his lifetime.

2. He was known for his booming voice, which could carry over large crowds, reportedly up to 30,000 people.

3. Whitefield was a close friend of Benjamin Franklin, who once calculated the reach of his voice.

4. He founded the Bethesda Orphanage in Savannah, Georgia, which is the oldest extant charity in North America.

5. Whitefield was instrumental in the establishment of the “New Lights,” a group that supported his style of evangelical preaching.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Whitefield

1. “We are immortal until our work on earth is done.”

2. “Let my name die everywhere, let even my friends forget me, if by that means the cause of the blessed Jesus may be promoted.”

3. “True conversion means turning not only from sin but also from depending on self-made righteousness.”

4. “God forbid that I should travel with anybody a quarter of an hour without speaking of Christ to them.”

5. “If your souls were not immortal, and you in danger of losing them, I would not thus speak unto you.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

George Whitefield did not accumulate personal wealth; his highest net worth was not significant as his focus was on ministry and charity work.

Children

George Whitefield did not have any biological children. His legacy, however, includes the many spiritual “children” he influenced through his sermons and charitable works.