Presidential Prayer Kids

Phillis writes in her poem of the gratitude she feels to God for using circumstances that were very difficult and painful and bringing good from them. Can you think of a place in the Bible where a character experienced and spoke of the same thing? Hover HERE to read:

Image courtesy of the University of North Carolina.

As Phillis' reputation grew, she was invited to recite poetry in peoples' homes and at public gatherings. She continued to grow in her Christian faith as well. Because she lived during the time of the Great Awakening she saw the powerful impact of famous preachers like George Whitefield. She most likely heard Whitefield preach during one of his visits to New England. In fact, when Whitefield died, Phillis wrote a great tribute to him that was widely published.

This illustration shows Rev. George Whitefield preaching with excitement and fervor. Whitefield had a great impact on Colonial America, and his preaching brought tens of thousands to faith in Christ during the Great Awakening. Image courtesy of the Savannah Images Project.

On the Death of the Rev. Mr. George Whitefield, 1770
HAIL, happy saint, on thine immortal throne,
Possest of glory, life, and bliss unknown;
We hear no more the music of thy tongue,
Thy wonted auditories cease to throng.
Thy sermons in unequall'd accents flow'd,
And ev'ry bosom with devotion glow'd;
Thou didst in strains of eloquence refin'd
Inflame the heart, and captivate the mind.
Unhappy we the setting sun deplore,
So glorious once, but ah! it shines no more.
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QUESTION 3

Read the first verse of Phillis Wheatley's tribute to George Whitefield. True or False Phillis was worried for Rev. Whitefield because she wasn't sure if he was going to heaven.

QUESTION 4

True or False Phillis Wheatley's tribute makes it clear that he was very much loved in New England.

Image courtesy of the Library of Congress.
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Because George Whitefield was so much loved on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, this poem brought new fame and recognition to Phillis. It was published in the Colonies and in Britain, giving her more respect and a wider audience. The popularity of this poem led to her first book of poems being published in Britain. It was called Poems on Various Subjects Religious and Moral. Phillis was able to publish the book thanks to the generosity of the Countess of Huntingdon, the wealthy woman to whom George Whitefield had been chaplain!

This illustration shows the Countess of Huntingdon who was a great supporter of George Whitefield and later, Phillis Wheatley. Image courtesy of the Library of Congress.

Phillis enjoyed the popular reception she received in Britain, but had to return to Boston quickly when she learned that Susannah Wheatley was ill. Phillis arrived in time to be with her beloved mistress when she died.

Soon Phillis was writing about all kinds of topics that interested the Colonials—especially freedom (although death—and eternal life—was the subject of many of her works). As the revolutionary climate grew in the Colonies Phillis did her part by embracing the cause of freedom and writing of its importance. You might say that Phillis was an activist because she stayed true to her Christian faith and continued to pursue spiritual growth. But she also spoke out about issues of injustice and freedom. She did and said many things that other black people were not able to do because of her famous reputation and beloved poetry.

When the Revolution broke out, Phillis was deeply moved and wrote a poem to General George Washington. Here are the first few lines of Phillis' tribute to Washington as a military leader:

Celestial choir! Enthron'd in realms of light, Columbia's scenes of glorious toils I write.
While freedom's cause her anxious breast alarms, She flashes dreadful in refulgent arms.
See mother earth her offspring's fate bemoan,
And nations gaze at scenes before unknown!
See the bright beams of heaven's revolving light
Involved in sorrows and veil of night!

Washington was so pleased by the poem, he wrote to Phillis telling her how very much he appreciated her kind poetic words.

I thank you most sincerely for your polite notice of me, in the elegant Lines you enclosed; and however undeserving I may be of such encomium and panegyrick , the style and manner exhibit a striking proof of your great poetical Talents.
--George Washington

This photo shows the inside of Old South Church in Boston as it looks today. On the outside, it is surrounded by skyscrapers! This is the church Phillis attended back in the mid-1700's. Can you think how this community of faith may have challenged Phillis to grow in Christ? Image courtesy of bostonchoral.com.

We may never know the full contribution Phillis Wheatley made to the cause of the American Revolution, the Christian faith or the young abolitionist movement. But we do know that she spoke out bravely about all those concerns, and she influenced many people with her powerful words. Here are some of her most beloved words on freedom. Read them and see if they don't move your heart. It's great to think of this cry of Phillis Wheatley, the slave girl, as we pray for those still struggling for freedom in Iraq!

In every human Breast, God has implanted a Principle, which we call Freedom, It is impatient of Oppression and pants for Deliverance. I will assert the same Principle lives in us. God grant Deliverance.
--Phillis Wheatley

Although Phillis experienced many wonderful things in her life, once both Mr. and Mrs. Wheatley had died, Phillis struggled in many ways. She married a freed slave, John Peters, who spent what little money she had. They had three children together, but only one of them survived. She even sold her favorite book of John Milton's poetry to raise funds, and ended up working in a boarding house. Right to the end of her life, Phillis tried very hard to get people to publish her poems. Because of the Revolutionary War, it was hard to get people interested.

This illustration is from France and was published in the 1830's, long after Phillis Wheatley died. It is not likely that she would wear such a low cut gown, but it shows very nicely how she belonged in the high society of New England and Britain. Image courtesy of PBS.

When Phillis Wheatley came to America, no one knew that she would become such a gifted and beloved poet. She combined hard work, a willingness to learn with the kindness of her family, the Wheatleys. Can you think of a place in the Bible that reminds us to make the very most of the gifts God gives us? Hover HERE to read:

Wow! Phillis Wheatley had a fascinating life! It's good to know about her because she wrote freely about her beliefs and faith, she loved the Scriptures, and she spoke up for what she knew was right. She paved the way for many black writers and activists who would follow her in the coming years. That makes her a really great example for kids who pray. Because you never know when God will give you the opportunity to tell others about Him or to help someone in need with a word of truth or encouragement. And above all, you can remember Phillis' example of faithfulness when you pray.