The Story of Lemuel Haynes

Middle-Grade Biography on Lemuel Haynes, First Black Ordained Minister and Voice against Racial Injustice

Lemuel Haynes was a writer, preacher, and influential figure in the abolitionist movement who was determined to spread the good news of God’s grace, justice, and mercy in a nation filled with racism and injustice. Trusting in God’s loving providence throughout his life, Haynes became the first Black man to be ordained as a minister and to receive a master’s degree in the United States. 

This short and lively biography takes middle-grade readers on an exciting journey through Haynes’s life, highlighting his difficult upbringing as an orphan and indentured servant, his adoption into a White family, his enlistment in the militia, and his passion for public ministry. His story teaches young readers that despite their sin and trials, God is at work bringing them closer to Jesus and making them more like him. Featuring illustrations, maps, timelines, bonus sidebars, and study questions, this addition to the Lives of Faith and Grace series engages kids ages 8–13 in the drama of history, showing how God worked in the past through ordinary people like them.

• Lively Biography: Explores the influential life of Lemuel Haynes, an important yet often unexplored figure in church history and the abolitionist movement 
• Written for Kids Ages 8–13: This short format includes illustrations, maps, timelines, and bonus sidebars to help young readers stay engaged
• Inspiring: Teaches about God’s hand of providence and the power of the gospel to transform anyone, no matter where they come from
• Part of the Lives of Faith and Grace Series: Engages kids with the real-life stories of Christian men and women from history