Challis, Rev. James M., was born in Philadelphia, Pa., Jan. 4, 1779. At an early age he lost his father, and went with his mother to reside at Salem, N. J.

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  · Daily Baptist Encyclopedia Post by Jim Curran

Challis, Rev. James M., was born in Philadelphia, Pa., Jan. 4, 1779. At an early age he lost his father, and went with his mother to reside at Salem, N. J. There he grew up under the ministry of Rey. Mr. Sheppard, by whom he was baptized and encouraged to turn his attention to the min- istry. He was licensed by the church, and after spending a short time in preparatory study with Dr. Holcomb, pastor of the First Baptist church, Philadelphia, he accepted a call to the pastorate of the church at Upper Freehold, N.J., where, in 1822, he was ordained. He removed to Lower Dublin, Pa., in 1838. With this ancient church he remained seven years, when he returned to New Jersey and became pastor of the churches at Moorestown and Marlton, and in 1842 of the Cohansey church. Here he labored eight years, when, owing to ad- advancing age, he resigned his charge and ended all pastoral labors. Removing to Bridgeton, he united with the First Baptist church. Here he resided, till his death, in April, 1868, preaching, however, at different points, as opportunity offered, and some- times supplying vacant churches for months in succession. His whole ministry covered a period of more than forty years, during which he was instrumental in bringing many to Christ, some of whom now occupy positions of prominence and usefulness in our churches. During his last illness, which was short but exceedingly painful, he experienced great peace of mind, and a sweet assurance through grace of entering into the everlasting rest. From the Baptist Encyclopedia by William Cathcart