Rev. Hezekiah James Balch: Unwavering Devotion to Christ and Country

Image Source: Find a Grave.com

By David T. Myers - Posted at This Day in Presbyterian History:

Here and there in these posts, you have read about Presbyterian clergy who were instrumental in preparing and molding the popular minds of Americans for the great struggle of the American Revolution. From both pulpit and battle field worship service, these Presbyterian chaplains challenged the troops to fight for their freedom and win the day. The British were certainly aware of the tremendous influences of these clergy toward that end and viewed it with alarm that it was thrown into the side of the rebellion. Among the many pastors of all denominations who joined the ranks were Presbyterians such as the Reverend Hezekiah James Balch, who is our character study today.

Born in 1741 in Deer Creek, Hartford County, Maryland to Col. James Balch and Anne Goodwin, there is little known about his early years. The whole family moved south to Mecklenburg, North Carolina when he was young. At some time in his teens, due to a recommendation from a minister who must have seen certain spiritual gifts in the young man, he entered the College of New Jersey, later Princeton, graduating from there in 1766.

Read more here.

See also:

• Balch, Hezekiah James (NCPedia.org)

• Hezekiah Balch (Wikipedia)

• Rev Hezekiah James Balch (Find a Grave.com)

Originally featured 6.22.2017