This week in Christian history: Jerry Falwell church founded, John Marrant born, Johannes Tauler dies

John Marrant born – June 15, 1755

This week marks the anniversary of the birth of John Marrant, a black author and Methodist missionary to the Cherokee and black Canadians.

Born to a free black family, Marrant became a born-again Christian when, at the age of 13, he attended a revival event featuring famed 18th century Methodist preacher George Whitefield.

Before the American Revolution broke out, Marrant briefly lived among the Cherokee and was considered the first African American missionary to the Native American tribe.

After serving in the British Army during the Revolution, Marrant lived in England and then moved to Nova Scotia, Canada, where he ministered among the local black community.

“Marrant is perhaps best known for his 1785 publication, A Narrative of the Lord’s Wonderful Dealings with John Marrant, A Black, an account of his experience with the Cherokee Nation and his Methodist ministry amongst the black loyalists of Nova Scotia,” noted the website Equiano’s World.

“It appeared in at least 21 different printings and was translated into Welsh. The initial purpose of the narrative was to promote the missionary project in Nova Scotia, but Marrant transformed his account into an extraordinary tale of his captivity among the Cherokee. While some say the narrative is embellished, it, nonetheless, sold well.”