Eviction from the Methodist Church
William’s heart for reaching the poor with God’s salvation had resulted in his eviction from the Methodist Church, just as Catherine’s refusal to be quieted had resulted in her own eviction.
This dismissal must have pained William greatly. After all, he had always believed that “there was one God, and John Wesley was His prophet.”
Support from Edward Rabbits
William may have been rejected, but he was not alone. Among the Methodists was a wealthy shoe factory owner, Edward Rabbits. Although the local Methodist elder did not prize William’s ministry, Edward did.
During the controversy between the Methodist mainliners and the reformers, Edward had sided with the reformers and lost his membership.
Invitation to Preach with the Reformers
When Edward heard that William also had been kicked out of The Methodist Church, he invited him to join the reformers and preach under their banner.
William had nowhere else to go, so he accepted the offer. In the coming months, Edward Rabbits came to appreciate William’s calling even more.
Support to Preach Full-Time
One night, Edward hosted William for dinner. During the meal, he told him that he would provide twenty shillings a week as his salary for at least three months.
There was one condition: William had to quit his pawnbroking job and preach full-time.
William was startled. However, he had been dreaming for months of doing this very thing. Therefore, he heartily agreed to Edward’s proposal.
READ ALSO: FRANKLIN HALL
New Lodging and Full-Time Ministry
Within a short time, William had left his employment and found new lodging. He then set out to save the world as a revivalist.
Meeting Catherine Mumford
Sometime in early 1852, William was invited to a tea party at the home of Edward Rabbits. He felt that declining to attend would be remiss, even though he was not fond of such social gatherings.
At the party, William was introduced to a number of other reformers. Among them was a small, delicate, dark-haired young woman with smiling eyes.
Immediately, he recognised her as the woman he had met after addressing a gathering of reformers at the Binfield Road Chapel in Clapham. Her name was Catherine Mumford.
Shared Passion for Temperance
By way of entertainment, William was asked to present a dramatic poem about a grog-seller—a thoroughly pro-temperance subject.
However, not everyone present subscribed to this stance. As he reached the end of the poem, William received some rebuffs from the audience.
Before he could defend himself, however, the young woman stepped forward. She presented one of the best arguments for banning alcohol that he had ever heard.
Obviously, there was much more behind those shining eyes than he had initially perceived.
To Be Continued…
Tale Tuesday 086
Date: 12st May, 2024
Title: : William & Catherine Booth (Part 12)
Source: God’s generals- The Revivalists
Author: Roberts Liardon
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