Baptist History, Heritage and Distinctives – Pastor George Whitefield Young – Part One of Two

Thomas E Kresal January 2, 2020

Baptist History, Heritage and Distinctives

Pastor George Whitefield Young – Part One of Two

Young, Rev. George Whitefield, was born in Amherst Co., Va., Feb. 15, 1807. His father, John Young, was a Baptist minister of whom honorable mention is made in Rev. James B. Taylor’s “History of Virginia Baptist Ministers” as “one of those who were imprisoned for Christ’s sake.”

Rev. George W Young united with the Prospect Baptist church of Amherst Co., Va., in 1827: in April, 1845, he was ordained in Elini church, Haywood Co., Tenn., having left his native State in October, 1829 ; he continued serving the best interests of this church until his death, Dec. 3, 1874, in the sixty-eighth year of his age. He was instrumental in the formation of Hermon church, Lauderdale Co., and he was its pastor for several years. In 1852 he was called to the pastorate of Woodlawn church, and served it until declining health forced him to resign. In 1869 he accepted the pastoral care of Salem church, Lauderdale Co., and in 1873 commenced his labors with Bloomington (now Brighton) church, Tipton Co.

The Big Hatchie Association frequently selected Rev. G. W Young as its moderator, and he was repeatedly elected president of the West Tennessee Baptist Convention. These offices of dignity and worth were conscientiously and satisfactorily filled. His great influence was always exerted for the good of humanity. His appearance was commanding, his manners were social and easy. He had a kind word for all who came in contact with him; his affection and gentleness won the sympathies of the young, and their welcome made his visits doubly enjoyable.

Thomas E. Kresal from: The Baptist Encyclopedia by William Cathcart, pg. 622.