Christmas Evans
1766 - 1838

"Always have a book to read, instead of indulging in vain conversations. Remember this, that you cannot commit some loved sin in private and perform the work of the ministry in public with facility and acceptance."

Christmas Evans was born in Wales on December 25, 1766. His father died when he was very young, and he went to live with a wicked, ungodly uncle.

Despite the bitterness and trials of his life, he accepted Christ as Saviour at the age of seventeen. Although he had no formal education, Evans taught himself Hebrew and Greek so he could study the Bible.

Shortly after his conversion he was badly beaten by some former friends, during which he lost one eye. Still he was constantly reading and studying to broaden his knowledge of God.

Evans first worked in the Presbyterian church but, upon further study, became a Baptist in 1786.

Evans pastored for twenty years on the island of Anglesea. He united the warring Baptist societies into an effective evangelistic tool for God.

His preaching started what became known as the "Welsh Revival." Thousands were saved as the power of God shook the country. Men and women traveled from everywhere to hear Evans preach.

After the death of his wife in 1823, Evans relocated to Caernarvon where he took a small, struggling church. He led the congregation to pay off their debts and saw the church marvelously blessed of God with converts. On his last Sunday at the church, Evans preached on the Prodigal Son.

Friday of that week as he lay dying, he said, "I have never ministered without the blood in the basin." His last words were, "Drive on!"