Charles Finney

August 29, 1792 – August 16, 1875

Evangelist & Revivalist

The father of modern revivalism who transformed American Christianity

Biography

American Presbyterian minister, revivalist leader, and president of Oberlin College. He was a central figure in the Second Great Awakening and is estimated to have led over 500,000 people to Christ.

Faith & Testimony

Finney's dramatic conversion experience in 1821 transformed him from a lawyer to a fiery evangelist. His revival meetings featured new methods including the 'anxious bench' and extended meetings. He was also a strong advocate for abolition and women's education.

Sources

Charles Grandison Finney — Wikipedia — Biography of the Second Great Awakening revivalist
The Autobiography of Charles G. Finney — Finney's own account of his conversion and revival ministry