THE AFRICAN WONDER
“BLACK HARRY” HOOSIER

A Gospelizer of Distinction

The African Wonder “Black Harry” Hoosier recovers the story of the little known but very influential Methodist revivalist in the 2nd Great Awaken­ing (1790s–1830) of the colonial period in American history. “Black Harry” was an illiterate ex-slave, yet phenomenal lay preacher who effectively reached masses of Blacks and countless whites across the racial barrier. He con­verted many souls to Christ, challenged racial prejudice and swelled Church membership. Though Black Harry was unable to read a word, a Bishop noted he was one of the “best preachers in the world.”

Due to the racially motivated and shortsighted inaction of some lead­ers, the Methodist Church never fully empowered Black Harry for greater service by ordaining this outstanding exhorter to a higher office. Nevertheless, the grace and power of God con­tinued working mightily in the fiery preaching of His humble servant. His powerful Gospel ministry greatly influenced the major spiritual trans­formation that took place in the generation he served.

The African Wonder “Black Harry” Hoosier highlights significant lessons from the life, wit­ness, and beliefs of this prominent Gospelizer. His “Good News” legacy testifies about prophesying, Koinonia-izing, kindred-loving, and Cross-bearing—a Black evangelical message certainly needed in the con­temporary Church. The favorite, perhaps most effective sermon of Black Harry was the parable of“The Barren Fig Tree” (Luke 13:6-9).