The Notorious Newgate Prison, London
Although John Wesley was disappointed with the lack of response he received in Newgate Prison, London, there was another Christian working amongst the prisoners with great effect.
Sarah Peters
Sarah Peters, described by Wesley as caring, even-tempered and able to handle pressurised situations well, spent many hours talking with the condemned prisoners. When she died in 1748, John Wesley gave a tribute to her in his journal.
The tribute consists of the collected testimonies of some of those who were facing execution. Paying a heavy price for a range of different crimes (some of which would not receive such harsh sentences today), these men were lost and facing the reality of death. Sarah came, taught them the gospel of Jesus Christ and prayed with them.
Over the next few posts we’ll read some breathtaking statements that are her enduring legacy…
John Lancaster
Convicted, tried and condemned and unable to have his sentence reduced, said:
‘I thank God, I do feel that He has forgiven me my sins: I do know it!’
Sarah asked him how he knew that. He replied, ‘I was in great heaviness, till the very morning you came hither first.
‘That morning I was in earnest prayer; and just as St Paul’s clock struck five, the Lord poured into my soul such peace as I had never felt; so that I was scarce able to bear it.
‘From that hour I have never been afraid to die; for I know, and am sure, as soon as my soul departs from the body, the Lord Jesus will stand ready to carry it into glory.’
For the next installment of this story read here
(from John Wesley Journal, Vol 2, p.121, Baker Edition)
© 2010 Lex Loizides
To Whom It May Concern
I am trying to find the name of the artist who did this wonderful picture (above) of the Notorious Newgate Prison. Do you know who did this? I would really appreciate any help on this.
KInd regards
Sofie Laguna